WEE COUNTY drivers are facing a 20-mile diversion in the evening due to road works north near Kennet.

Overnight closures have been scheduled this month on the A977 as part of an ongoing road widening project.

On the three nights scheduled, motorists travelling in both directions will be diverted, adding as much as half an hour extra to journeys.

The programme, between the Kilbagie and Gartarry roundabouts, began on October 18. Until now, works have continued with single lane closures and temporary traffic lights in place from 19.30 and 06.30 each weekday night.

However, the road will be closed in both directions on the nights of Friday, February 10,  and Monday, February 13, between 7.30pm and 6.30am.

A diversion route will be signposted via the A876, M876, M9, A91 and A907.

Alloa and Hillfoots Advertiser: The roadworks on the A977 will involved road closures in both directions between the Kilbagie and Gartcarry Roundabouts later this monthThe roadworks on the A977 will involved road closures in both directions between the Kilbagie and Gartcarry Roundabouts later this month (Image: N/A)

Tommy Deans, BEAR Scotland’s South East Network Manager, said: "When complete, this road widening scheme will reduce queuing and congestion around Kilbagie and Gartarry Roundabouts during peak times.

"We have been able to carry out most of the works using lane closures and temporary traffic lights; however, we do need to close the road completely on [these] nights... in order to keep our workforce and the travelling public safe.

"We’re grateful to road users and local communities for their patience and understanding."

It is expected that 20 miles and 30 minutes of travel time will be added to journeys.

Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead and check the Traffic Scotland website for up-to-date travel information.

The current schedule is weather dependent and subject to postponement in the event of adverse conditions.

All works are expected to conclude by the end of February.