the surface "bubbled up''.

Workmen have been re-laying tarmac on the road which bypasses Somerset Bridge during its renovation.

The temporary roadway opened in the middle of April and this week workmen have been putting down a new surface on some sections. A single traffic file was in operation during the work.

Works and Engineering Minister C.V. (Jim) Woolridge said the cause could be either the humid weather or the settling of the construction, which comprises of aggregate laid over huge boulders in the water. In addition, he said the weight of some of the large trucks using the causeway could have affected the surface.

Before repair work was started large humps and dips were visible on the surface, giving vehicles a bumpy ride across the water.

Mr. Woolridge said the work was to make the crossing safe and comfortable for those using it.

"It was not put down to last ten years, it was put down to last a few months,'' he said.

The roadway was laid to take traffic around the drawbridge while essential repairs were undertaken. It is expected that the newly-strengthened bridge will be re-opened by the end of July.

MAKING IT SAFE -- Workmen lay tarmac on a section of the temporary causeway at Somerset Bridge. Parts of the road have "bubbled up'' and required replacing for the safety and comfort of traffic.

TRANSPORTATION TRA