A section of a busy bypass closed over a burst pipe is set to be reopened at the weekend.

The Hythe Bypass on Applemore Hill has been closed since the water main burst on Wednesday, April 18.

This resulted in a road closure between Dibden roundabout and Sizer Way roundabout, where Southern Water engineers dug further down to make repairs.

The burst pipe has been mended, restoring water to the 18 homes affected, and a new base has been laid on the road.

Today, crews will be focusing on tarmacking, but Southern Water warn that due to the hot weather, it may not set properly until sometime during the weekend.

An exact date or time has not been given.

READ MORE: Man cycles into sinkhole full of water from burst main

In its latest update, a spokesperson for Southern Water said: "Our teams continue to focus on the reinstatement work to reopen the road.

"Please note that due to the current hot weather conditions, the tarmac may require additional time to set properly, which may extend into the weekend.

"We appreciate your patience and understanding, and we'll continue to keep you updated as the work progresses."

A 4.5-mile diversion route has been implemented due to the closure, which has caused significant disruption to motorists.