Three major road incidents in the space of two days are causing severe traffic congestion for commuters this morning.

Traffic has been backed up across Kingston since a 42in water main burst in Wood Street in the town centre on Monday, March 5.

Traffic flow is currently restricted to one lane from the Wood Street junction at Dolphin Street, up to the Vicarage Road junction, while Thames Water works to repair the leaks, a job it hopes to complete by Sunday, March 11.

The essential roadworks have caused congestion in Surbiton Road, Maple Road, Richmond Road and Eden Street.

A Kingston Council spokesman said: “Unfortunately, disruption is unavoidable in this instance because there is no alternative diversion route for Wood Street.”

“Motorists are advised to allow extra time for journeys passing through the town centre and to try to be patient if they have to use the route. An alternative would be to take public transport if at all possible.”

Further traffic was caused by a 100ft lorry, which was delivering beams to Skerne Road power station, and became jammed trying to turn a corner at 8pm on Monday, March 5.

Although the truck was manoeuvred to the side of Cambridge Road it cannot be moved or turn left into London Road until traffic lights and other street furniture are moved out the way at 7pm tonight.

Finally, a 12in burst water pipe near to the Kingston Hospital entrance sparked further chaos on the roads on Tuesday afternoon as Kingston Hill was closed in both directions between Clifton Road, Park Road and Queen’s Road.

Bus routes 57, 85 and 213 were on diversion.

A Thames Water Spokesman said: "We're really sorry for all the traffic congestion this is causing in Kingston, but these are must-do jobs.

“The potential consequences of leaving leaks to develop into major bursts would be far worse."