MOTORISTS in a Cumbrian town are facing two days of disruption and delays as a mobile phone operate needs to carry out essential work.

Rosemary Lane in the centre Whitehaven will be closed from its junction with Albion Street in a north direction for around 50m.

The road is being closed from May 6 so that T-Mobile can carry out utility works.

The order is in place for 18 months, but it is anticipated that the work will take just two days to complete.

Pedestrians and dismounted cyclists will be able to pass the roadworks at all times.

While the works are being carried out, drivers will be diverted via the unrestricted section of Rosemary Lane, and then along Harbour View, High Road, Ennerdale Terrace, Ginns to Kells Road, Preston Street, New Town and Albion Street.

The diversion will add an additional 2.1 miles - and around six minutes - to motorist's usual journeys.