The road traffic management was due to be completed on about April 13 but has had to be extended until about May 22 for "operational reasons".

Scottish Water says it has extended some road traffic management as the company progresses with the installation of a £24 million strategic water main.

It involves the closure of the southbound lane on a short section of the A738 Stevenston Road at its junction with Castlehill Road near the fire station, and the use of temporary three-way traffic lights.

Scottish Water says it apologises and thanks affected road users for their patience and understanding.

Caledonia Water Alliance, (CWA) Scottish Water’s alliance partner, is constructing a 7.3 mile-long water main from south of Drybridge, near Dreghorn, to the west of Eglinton Country Park.

The new main will benefit customers in Irvine, Kilwinning, Stevenston, Dreghorn, Drybridge and parts of Saltcoats by providing greater security of supply of clear, fresh drinking water.

The new plastic water main will replace an existing concrete main and the use of more robust materials will make the new main less susceptible to bursts.

The route of the new main will also improve accessibility for Scottish Water to undertake maintenance work and, should the need arise, any repair work.

The project is expected to be completed by autumn 2017.