SCOTTISH Water bosses have confirmed that the completion of roadworks on the main road linking Inverclyde with Ayrshire has been delayed until the end of the year.

Scottish Water says ongoing work to install a new water main on the A78 Shore Road is now expected to be completed in December.

The works have caused backlogs not only for road users, but also ferry traffic as queues threaten to delay services leaving and arriving at Wemyss-Bay for Rothesay as part of a wider £2 million investment that'll see over two miles of new pipeline fitted in the area.

The publicly owned utility has advised that a dedicated customer care agent will be present on site to assist with any enquiries from residents.

A Scottish Water spokesperson said: "Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, the completion date of the works has been extended.

There will be roadworks on Shore Road, Skelmorlie, including the use of temporary traffic lights, which will be manned between the hours of 7am-7pm.

"Directional signage will be in place at access points requesting road users follow the flow of traffic.

"Scottish Water has extended thanks to residents and road users for their patience and understanding while the essential work is carried out."