Work has started on a temporary mini-roundabout to support the construction of a new crossing linking St David’s and St George’s, the Ministry of Public Works and Environment said today.

Paving, road markings and signs must be completed before the new mini-roundabout — the final phase of roadworks for the Swing Bridge detour route — at the existing bridge can safely open.

Owing to delays that affected paving works, the change is expected to take effect in early October, weather permitting.

Once the mini-roundabout opens, the one-way oval will be removed and the longer-term detour route will take effect.

St David’s Road will be closed to public traffic from both the Swing Bridge and Marginal Wharf sides.

Access to Stocks Harbour will continue until bridge construction begins. St David’s Road will then be used by contractors working on the bridge.

All vehicles travelling to and from St David’s, including cars, buses and tractor-trailers, will instead use Southside Road, Kindley Field Park and Gate Number One.

When the new traffic arrangement begins, the St David’s bus stop will move to the new bus turnaround inside Kindley Field Park.

The detour route, including the mini-roundabout, bus turnaround and new roundabout at Waller’s Point Road, is expected to remain in place throughout construction of the new Swing Bridge, estimated at about three years.

Jaché Adams, the Minister of Public Works and Environment, said he recognised the route would be a “significant change” for road users.

“There will naturally be an adjustment period, but I want to reassure the public that access to both St David’s and St George’s will be maintained throughout the bridge works,” he said.

“These changes are necessary to allow construction of the new Swing Bridge to move forward safely and we have worked to put arrangements in place that keep traffic moving while that work takes place.

“I encourage motorists to familiarise themselves with the new route, follow the signage and take a little extra care as everyone adjusts.”