The wrong type of weather has meant major repairs to the A380 between Exeter and Kingsteignton could continue until July or beyond.

The scheme has already resulted in several weeks of traffic chaos owing to lane restrictions, diversions and overnight closures. With the programme already running behind schedule, on Friday a Devon County Council spokesman confirmed that until the right 'weather window' appeared it was difficult to say when it would be completed.

'Due to persistent rain and lower temperatures than usual for this time of year the schedule of the roadworks on the A380 will have to be extended. 'Unfortunately the adverse weather conditions have affected the surface dressing and some areas may have to be re-treated.

'A weather window of around five days is needed when day and night temperatures are high enough to ensure that the work can be completed satisfactorily. Until then the A380 will remain open.

'The work will continue to be dependent on the weather, but hopefully we will get a weather window between now and the end of July. 'When closures are in place, work will take place between 7pm and 7am, with attempts to minimise the time to lessen the impact of the closure. 'We will endeavour to keep disruption to a minimum and will maintain access to properties at all times, but some delays are inevitable.'

During closures northbound traffic will continue to be diverted through Kingsteignton and directed via the B3193 to join the A38 at Chudleigh. Southbound traffic approaching Kennford will be advised to follow the A38 to Chudleigh and then take the B3193 into Kingsteignton, to rejoin the A380 at Eagle Farm. A38017.06.11nac mda 273