THOUSANDS of drivers facing six months of traffic disruption were warned today that the countdown to chaos has begun.

Hampshire County Council announced that a £1.5m project to repair part of the A36 at Totton will start on August 13.

Contractors will rebuild a 1.3-mile section between its junctions with Commercial Road and Calmore Drive.

Highway chiefs are urging drivers to reduce disruption by car sharing and avoiding peak-time journeys.

A county council spokesman said: "The works are necessary because the road has become worn out after many years of heavy use.

"The scheme includes reconstructing and resurfacing the carriageway, improving the drainage system and installing new cycle facilities.

"We are also planning to install a toucan crossing and new street lights, as well as improving the landscaping."

The spokesman said every effort would be made to keep traffic disruption to a minimum.

"We're not proposing to close the road. Work will be restricted to specific areas at any one time, with traffic controlled by temporary lights.

"As many materials as possible will be recycled or reused, reducing construction time and the number of lorry movements."

Keith Estlin, chairman of the county council's environment committee, said: "Tests have shown that the road is deteriorating and needs rebuilding to ensure safety standards are maintained.

"These substantial works will mean fewer traffic disruptions for motorists caused by ad hoc patching repairs in the future.

"The works will inevitably cause disruption for motorists and residents.

"The county council will ensure access is maintained for local residents and traders, and will provide those affected with as much information as possible regarding the programme and its progress.

"Drivers can help themselves by car sharing, avoiding peak-time journeys if possible and leaving extra time for their journeys."