LONG delays are expected in both directions of the Pakenham Bypass due to essential roadworks.
The roadworks, which began on Tuesday 8 January, are set to continue until Tuesday 15 January.
VicRoads advises motorists of long delays in both directions and will carefully monitor the impact of the works on traffic flows in the area.
The works include spray sealing which requires lane closures in both directions of the Princes Freeway between Cardinia Creek and Kooweerup Road at Pakenham.
Due to the nature of this work, traffic may need to be stopped for up to 15 minutes while bitumen spraying is being undertaken.
The works cannot be undertaken at night and are scheduled to take place between 8am and 3pm on the eastbound (outbound) carriageway and between 9.30am and 3.30pm on the westbound (inbound) carriageway.
Motorists can expect delays of about 20 minutes at these times.
Drivers are advised to avoid unnecessary travel or consider using the old Princes Highway in the Pakenham area.
The roadworks are weather dependent and may be postponed in the event of extreme conditions.