A main road into Carlisle is set to close for up to 10 nights to allow for essential repairs to a motorway bridge.

A stretch of Houghton Road North, taking vehicles from the A689 over the bridge towards the village, will be shut between 10pm and 6am, from March 1.

It means diversions for motorists who use this route as a way into Carlisle - and for villagers or others living by who use it to head north, east or towards the motorway.

The C1012, from its junction with the A689, will be shut in a southerly direction for approximately 400 metres.

The works, being carried out by Kier Highways, have been described as a "potential disruption" that could hit both Houghton villagers and those who live further afield at Hethersgill, Scaleby and Smithfield.

Mike Fox, chairman of Stanwix Rural Parish Council, which covers the Houghton area, envisages the closures at night as a "minor" disruption to those who live in the north end of Houghton.

"If people know well in advance then they can plan accordingly," he said.

"But it is likely many will be caught out with those worst affected who are travelling further afield," said Mr Fox.

"Anyone travelling from Houghton to Scotland will have to drive to the Linstock roundabout and up that way to the motorway," he added.

Vehicles will be diverted via the A689, B6264 Brampton Old Road, and an unrestriction section of the C1012 Houghton Road.

But a pedestrian route will be maintained throughout. Work is being carried out overnight to help minimise disruptions.