Drivers can look forward to a clear run soon on Oxford's busy Abingdon Road -- but only for six days.

The latest phase of work to repave one of the city's main commuter routes is due for completion on Thursday, September 2.

Businesses and guest houses in Abingdon Road who say their takings have been hit by two summers of hold-ups and diversions were looking forward to a respite after nine weeks of upheaval.

But county council transport managers are planning to embark on another section of work in September that was originally scheduled for next year. Paul Kuterba, manager of the Artemis Guest House, said: "I was hoping the work would finish sooner rather than later so I can't say I am delighted to hear that there is going to be more work.

"Sometimes the buses take 20 minutes to get into town and our guests complain.

"But you can definitely see an improvement on the road surface where the work has been done, so I suppose we will just have to put up with it."

The work -- between Folly Bridge and Thames Street -- will begin on Wednesday, September 8.

Kevin Haines, the council's group manager for highway management, said: "It looks like the latest phase of work will be completed well in time.

"We are ahead of schedule and have been in control of the traffic situation. We now want to get another chunk of the work out of the way in time for the winter.

"So far the work has been done to a very high standard and drivers have commented on the quality of the surface."

The work will take place after St Giles Fair, when more traffic is expected in the city. It should be completed by October 1.

The council aims next year to focus on the stretch between Vicarage Road and the junction with the Old Abingdon Road, which leads to Kennington.

During the past two years, work has been carried out during the summer to coincide with the school summer holidays when there is less traffic on the roads. Manned signals have been used to reduce congestion, following complaints.