Plymothians are being urged to support the businesses on the waterfront during a seven month gas mains replacement programme.

The work by wales and west utilities began in earnest on Monday with the closure of Sutton Road and the installation of temporary traffic lights on Notte Street.

The waterfront partnership says it wants to get the message across that all businesses in the area are open as normal.

New signs are being produced to emphasise this and to direct people to parking.

Waterfront manager Sarah O'leary says she understands motorists' frustration, particularly as work continues in the east end of the city too but she says these works are essential.