TRAFFIC management measures and lane closures are causing congestion in Gourock.

They were brought into effect on Cardwell Road on Monday — and will last for the next couple of months.

The restrictions, which will remain in place for a total of 10 weeks, are necessary to enable work to continue on a £1.5 million waste water infrastructure project.

A stretch of Cardwell Road is subject to lane closures, traffic lights and a temporary pedestrian crossing as a result, pictured.

Parking has also been suspended on the section.

Scottish Water says it is carrying out work to reduce the risk of flooding to properties in Steel Street and Cardwell Road.

Traffic management restrictions remain in place in Cove Road, but Steel Street is now open following the completion of work there.

The current restrictions are contributing to very lengthy queues at peak times — and testing the patience of motorists.

Greenock publican Diane Rebecchi said it took her 35 minutes to get from the Esplanade to St Andrew’s Church in Larkfield on Monday night.

Diane, 56, said: “It a piece of nonsense that temporary roadworks which cover 100 metres are causing such disruption.” Mrs Rebecchi says a hearse was caught up in one of the traffic tailbacks.

She said: “There’s every possibility you will be late for your own funeral in Greenock.” Scottish Water bosses have said sorry for the inconvenience being experienced by drivers but add that the work they are undertaking is vital.

Mark Maclaren, their communities team regional manager, said: “We thank road users affected by our road traffic management for their patience and understanding and apologise for any inconvenience.

“Scottish Water is fully aware of the inconvenience that flooding can cause and we are committed to tackling this and to improving the natural environment. We are pleased to be making progress with this investment in our infrastructure in Gourock.”