ROAD closures will be in place along a vital route between Greenock and Inverkip starting this Saturday while essential works are carried out.

Road operator Amey will be undertaking the works overnight from September 16 until September 30 on the A78 between Greenock and Inverkip.

They say the improvements will benefit the almost 15,000 vehicles that use the route each day by improving the condition of the carriageway and reducing the need for more expensive maintenance in the future.

It is also claimed that the works will improve safety along the route for all road users.

The works will consist of resurfacing on the A78 northbound, between the Loch Thom junction and the north entrance to the former IBM site.

Road markings and studs will also be replaced in both directions to improve road safety along a 3.2km section of the A78 dual and single carriageway between Bankfoot Roundabout and Flatterton Road.

The work will be carried out using overnight road closures and a signed diversion will be in operation.

There will be overnight closures between 8pm and 6am from September 16 to September 21 with all traffic management to be removed by 6am on September 22. 

There will be additional overnight closures on the northbound carriageway only between 8pm and 6am from September 26 until September 29, with all traffic management to be removed by 6am on September 30.

Northbound traffic will be diverted via the first exit at Bankfoot Roundabout to follow the A770 towards the Bullring Roundabout to re-join the A78 or to join the A8.

Southbound traffic will follow the same diversion route but in reverse.

Roads bosses have pledged that access for emergency service vehicles will be maintained throughout these works.