Motorists in Carmarthenshire are being urged to drive carefully as essential road maintenance works are carried out across the county.

Surface dressing works are carried out annually by the Council to make the roads safer and better to use.

It involves applying a coating of hot bitumen onto the road surface followed by layers of hard stone chippings. A mechanical sweeper then removes the excess chippings.

The equivalent length of about 45 miles of a standard single carriageway is being treated.

Motorists are being asked to take extra care while the works are being carried out to avoid accidents or damage.

People should drive carefully within the recommended speed limit, never overtake and avoid sudden braking and sharp turning movements while the new surface settles-in.

Pedestrians are also advised to take care walking near any newly treated surface as the bitumen can stick on shoes. The substance can be removed with solvents such as white spirits or turpentine.

Cllr Edward Thomas, Cabinet Member for Transport, Waste and Infrastructure Services said: “This work prolongs the life expectancy of the road, as it prevents water seeping into the road foundation and weakening. This also reduces the chances of potholes developing.

“Once treated, the skid resistance value of the road surface is improved.

“This is the most cost effective method of resurfacing our roads and it also allows traffic to drive over the newly laid surface almost immediately after.

“Like most highway maintenance works, it does cause disruption to the free flow of traffic, and drivers need to travel slowly on the newly laid surface to prevent chippings being dislodged.

“It is for this is the reason why advisory speed limits are displayed. Inconsiderate drivers who travel at speeds above the recommended limit can undermine road safety and cause damage to their own and other vehicles, pedestrians and property because of the risk of chippings being thrown up.”

Small delays may be possible and the council apologises for any inconvenience caused whilst the works are carried out.