TRAFFIC is "gridlocked" as gas works wreak havoc in a residential area.

A three way traffic lights system is causing lengthy delays with tailbacks from Carden Hill, Brighton, reports say.

They have been put in place as a result of gas works which are expected to last until October 22.

Drivers have been warned that "delays are likely" during this time.

The works are also affecting bus services running in the area.

A Brighton and Hove Buses spokesman said: "As of 5.40pm this evening there is severe congestion in Hollingbury which is now backed down Coldean Lane.

"This is due to the roadworks on Carden Avenue.

"We are experiencing late running to our 5B, 24 and 26 services."

As a result the bus company has changed the routes of three of its services so they do not serve the Asda store in Hollingbury.

A spokesman said: "Due to the roadworks on Carden Avenue causing severe congestion and delays, our 24 and 26 services are still not serving ASDA Hollingbury at this time.

"They are also terminating and starting from the Old Steine."

Three lots of gas works are currently being carried out by gas company SGN in Carden Hill.

A spokesman for the company said it was "upgrading its gas network".

An AA spokesman said it had received reports of very slow traffic stretching back to Carden Avenue's junction with the A27.