Traffic delays on Harbour Road caused by a wall that collapsed during last month’s storms are set to continue until after Christmas.

The section of road, near Salt Kettle Road in Paget, has been down to one lane since Tropical Storm Fay and temporary lights were put up to control traffic, causing delays during rush hours.

This week, the westbound lane on the section of road was completely closed off, with motorists travelling in that direction diverted to Middle Road.

The Ministry of Public Works told The Royal Gazette that, while the collapsed wall, which is on the ocean side of Harbour Road, was part of a private property, a part of the road adjacent to it had also been compromised, prompting the need for traffic control and repair work. It was added that it was unlikely that this would be completed by Christmas.

A spokeswoman said today that the wall collapsed as a result of a falling tree and that a “large crack” had appeared a couple of feet from the edge of the road, which “would also give way” if traffic continued to use the road. The wall shields a six-foot drop into the private property.

“It has been necessary to keep the road single-file in this location since this time,” the spokeswoman said. “The Ministry will replace the wall with one that is properly engineered and can support the loadings from the road.

“The Ministry apologises for any inconvenience and advises motorists and pedestrians to exercise patience and additional caution in this section of Harbour Road.”