Motorists were warned of severe disruption as engineers begin work to improve gas supplies to homes and businesses in the Palmeira Avenue area of Westcliff.

The first phase of roadworks, which will involve replacing existing gas mains with modern plastic piping, started in Cambridge Road, near the junction with Park Road, on Monday.

The road has not been closed to traffic but temporary traffic lights are in place.

Steve Bunker, network operations manager for Transco, said: "This scheme is essential.

"It is Transco's job to ensure that we continue to pipe gas in the safest and most reliable way and this work demonstrates our commitment to ensuring this.

"All work has been agreed with the local council."

Mr Bunker added his team of engineers would continue to work closely with the council, local businesses and residents to minimise disruption.

Most of the roadwork would be in residential streets, so he anticipated traffic disruption should be kept to a minimum.

Engineering work planned for seafront areas Shorefield Road and Western Esplanade will not start until January 2005, because there are less visitors to the area at this time of year.