TRAFFIC in a city centre car park caused reported delays of more than an hour over the weekend.
Drivers became stuck in a traffic jam in Central Car Park which tailed back into Fisherton Street on Saturday afternoon, November 4.
Wiltshire Council received reports of the congestion and sent officers to support drivers attempting to exit the car park.
The disruption caused by the Fisherton Gateway and River Park Projects taking place at the same time has made navigating the city more difficult, especially during peak times.
The council has apologised for inconveniencing motorists and offered reassurance that plans are in place to manage traffic in the run-up to Christmas and Remembrance Day.
Councillor Caroline Thomas, cabinet member for transport, said: "We received reports of congestion in Central Car Park extending into Fisherton Street on Saturday, November 4 and officers were able to attend and support drivers exiting the car park.
"We understand that improvement works of this scale can cause disruption, especially when running concurrently, and we apologise for any inconvenience caused to motorists in the city."
"However, due to the funding deadline for the Fisherton Gateway scheme, we could not delay the works until after the completion of the River Park."
Cllr Thomas said the council is working with the Environment Agency, which is delivering the River Park Project, to improve traffic management.
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"I would encourage visitors to the city centre to make use of the park and ride services or Culver Street Car Park," Cllr Thomas added, and said: "These improvement schemes represent a massive investment in Salisbury which will improve the experience for residents and visitors alike and ensure a sustainable future for the city.
"We are working with our partners to complete these works as soon as possible and keep disruption to a minimum, and we thank people for their patience.”
Current council guidance advises drivers to enter and exit Central Car Park via the A36 rather than Fisherton Street.
The Environment Agency has been approached for comment.
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