The NZ Transport Agency is advising Tauranga motorists there will be a new road layout on State Highway 2A on Takitimu Drive this week.

From today the outside lanes of the Takitimu Drive overbridge will be closed to allow contractors to continue planned bridge abutment strengthening works.

NZTA will be working on on Takitimu Drive overbridge this week and advises motorists it will have a new road layout.

Traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction and a speed limit of 50km/h will be in place. Only the inside lane in each direction will be open.

The NZ Transport Agency's Bay of Plenty journey manager Nigel D'Ath says the work to repair bridge expansion joints is expected to be completed by late-September and motorists using the area should expect delays in the meantime.

'Motorists are urged to use alternative routes if possible, especially during peak times,” says Nigel.

The NZTA appreciates the co-operation of Tauranga City Council and the patience of road users while the work continues.

For real time information on highway conditions and incidents visit www.nzta.govt.nz call 0800 4 HIGHWAYS or follow @nztawaibop on twitter.