WITH reference to the total gridlock which seems to hit Southampton whenever cruise liners dock simultaneously.

It must be obvious to all, except those in command of all things traffic, that the roadworks surrounding Dock Gate 4 is the main contributor to congestion, yet whilst passing Dock Gate 4 on Thursday, January 16 at about 10.30 am, there was not a soul to be seen working anywhere on the project.

As the cruise business is a lifeline to many people and commercial enterprises in the city, I would have thought that a 24-hour effort at the least on one of the roadworks would help bring this major hindrance to a swifter conclusion.

It is vital that we make continued investment in all things required to maintain Southampton as a major international port. It would be a shame to lose this great asset over a traffic jam.

M J RYDE, Southampton.