Major reconstruction on the arterial route left motorists stuck in huge tailbacks for anything up to 45 minutes.

And the bad news is the 2.7 kilometre stretch of roadworks on the westbound carriageway, between Glendoick and St Madoes, costing £1.5m, are set to remain until the end of this month.

The road will benefit from reconstruction, replacement of road markings and upgrading of signage and safety barriers.

Although night-time and off-peak working is apparently scheduled, there were extremely lengthy tailbacks as frustrated motorists approached the works.

Transport Scotland’s North East Project Manager, Lawrence Shackman, said, “This heavily-used section of road has reached the end of its life and needs investment.

“There will be some delays in the short term while work is ongoing. However, the long-term benefits will be improved safety and more efficient use of the road network, due to a reduction in repairs arising from the outdated infrastructure.”

To try to minimise delays, work will be carried out in two sections to reduce the length of contraflow.

A statement on the Traffic Scotland website gave details of the contraflow — and warned of significant delays.

Anyone frustrated by the works is asked to bear in mind the reasons for the contraflow.

“In 2005 five road workers were killed on high speed roads in the UK,” the website reports.

“The contraflow will operate to allow traffic to flow safely and to provide a safe working zone for the staff carrying out the reconstruction. Think of the area within the cones as their place of work.”

“Slow down and obey the 30mph contraflow speed limit and watch out for site personnel,” Traffic Scotland warn.

“Be alert for works traffic, consider journey times when making travel plans and observe all signs.”

A police spokesman urged motorists to exercise patience while roadworks are carried out.