DRIVERS will have to follow a 31-mile diversion around Basingstoke to bypass roadworks.

Surface treatment works will take place on the B3400 London Road, Overton, from the junction of Burley Lane to the junction Winchester Street from Monday, August 9 until Tuesday, August 10.

The works are programmed to commence from 9am and are expected to last until 16.30pm, during which time the road will need to be closed to vehicular traffic.

Hampshire County Council has published the official 31-mile diversion route online, which will take approximately 41 minutes to follow.

The Streetworks website states: “The works are weather sensitive and the dates are subject to change. Yellow warning signs giving the most up to date information will be erected at the works limits.

“These will be updated as soon as possible in the event of any programme changes. Access for residents and businesses will be maintained wherever possible during the working hours.”

Alternatively, there are a number of shorter but unofficial routes that drivers can take to avoid the road closure. These not suitable for HGVs and should be avoided if using larger machinery.

Any person who breaches the road closure could be convicted or face a fine not exceeding £1,000.

The diversion route will be signposted on the road.

To view the official diversion route visit the Hampshire County Council website by clicking here.