A WELL-USED rat run across Winchester is to close for several weeks, inconveniencing hundreds of motorists.

Garnier Road in St Cross will shut to allow long-awaited work on a bridge to be under-taken.

Hampshire's transport boss is warning motorists to allow longer for their journeys in the south side of Winchester.

The closure will force drivers to take longer detours onto the M3 or through the city centre.

Hampshire County Council contractors will replace part of a bridge near the former re-cycling centre in Garnier Road.

Work will start on February 21 and last for about seven weeks. The cost of the work is £65,000.

Beams on the existing bridge had started to rust, so a temporary structure has been over it for nearly two years. A new reinforced concrete deck will now be constructed.

Work had to be delayed until the recycling centre was closed with the new one opening in nearby Bar End in December.

The bridge was the only route to the former centre without a height restriction and so had to be kept open.

Councillor Keith Estlin, county council executive member for environment, said: "We have no option but to close the road while work is being carried out, although pedestrian access will be maintained at all times.

"A signed alternative route will be in place for traffic, so it would be wise to allow extra time for your journey."