A councillor has said that diversions away from Redbridge Flyover towards the roundabout that links the city with the M271 are "unavoidable" during emergency works.

Councillor Eamonn Keogh said that the geography of the leak detection repairs makes the situation "precarious and complex" when trying to reroute traffic safely.

A signed diversion is currently in place when coming into Southampton from the New Forest, taking drivers off the slip road down to Redbridge Roundabout.

The cabinet member for environment and transport said that the closure for the emergency works was publicised via Blue Sky, Facebook, email and uploaded to the council's website.

Thousands of drivers are expecting to head towards Southampton tomorrow as three cruise ships will be in port.

When questioned on what plans were in place to deal with "high volumes of traffic" in the city centre tomorrow, Cllr Keogh said safety for site staff and commuters is "paramount".

READ MORE: Workers 'narrow down' location of water leak after chaos

He said: "The physically available space on the bridge, the proximity of slip roads merging, combined with the bend in the road, and the blind summit approach makes it a very precarious and complex situation to ensure that everyone is safe and that all traffic movements comply with regulations and this is why Southern Water have been unable to open a lane on the Flyover.

"Safety for site staff and commuters is paramount and, whilst it may seem a large footprint, it is unavoidable as to do otherwise would jeopardise safety."

READ MORE: Leak still not found as thousands of cruise passengers set to arrive tomorrow

Cllr Keogh said that communications have gone out regularly to Southampton stakeholders whenever Southern Water has posted an update.

He continued: "Our team is working with them and our colleagues in neighbouring authorities to ascertain any availability to reduce the impact of the works, including managing the traffic lights on Redbridge Roundabout to create a balance for movement in all directions.

"With limited alternative routes, this is challenging, but it’s something Southern Water and our CityWatch team are focused on 24/7.

"We are continuing to collaborate with our colleagues in neighbouring authorities and with Southern Water and currently expect that the closure will be lifted tomorrow night.”