COMMUTERS have been warned to expect further delays today on a section of one of the main motorway routes between Edinburgh and the north after maintenance teams failed to complete work on time.

Contractors have apologised after failing to finish resurfacing work which was due to have ended last night on a 700-metre stretch of the northbound M9 at Plean, Stirlingshire.

It warned that traffic cones will remain in place, shutting off certain lanes, while the works are completed and it is expected there will be delays during peak periods.

The motorway which carries 11,000 vehicles a day, is a significant commuter route between the Lothians and Stirling.

The section affected, between Junction 8 at Hill of Kinnaird and Junction 9 Bannockburn, was due to have been finished by 6am today. Efforts to finish the project will continue for the rest of the day and into tomorrow.

The northbound carriageway is currently closed with a contraflow on the southbound carriageway with one lane in operation for each direction of traffic. A speed limit of 40mph will remain in place.

BEAR Scotland said the scope of the work had increased "due to unforeseen circumstances."

Ian Stewart, BEAR Scotland's Operating Company Representative in the South East, said: "BEAR Scotland regrets any inconvenience caused to motorists and is making every effort to complete the works and fully reopen the road as soon as possible.

"The strengthening that has been required for the road foundation was unforeseen and it is essential we complete it before the resurfacing work is finished to ensure the future integrity of this essential section of the M9.

"We urge motorists to allow additional time for their journeys or take alternative routes where possible," he added.

Motorists are advised to find out further details of possible delays by visiting www.trafficscotland.org or by keeping up to date with local travel news bulletins.