WORK has been delayed on Ainley Top Bridge - because it's too cold.

The bridge, close to Junction 24 of the M62, is already two weeks behind schedule because of the recent bad weather.

Materials used to `re-waterproof' the bridge can only be used when the temperature is above 5°C (41°F).

The news has been greeted with disbelief by Ainley Top resident David Bentley.

Mr Bentley, of St Anne's Avenue, said the roadworks were causing traffic delays in the mornings.

He added: "I would have thought it was warm enough today. It's quite pleasant.

"If they don't come back next week it will be at least into the end of April - which means 11 weeks."

The work was only supposed to take eight.

Mr Bentley said he had spent time travelling in America and repair works like the ones at Ainley Top were carried out much more efficiently.

He said: "They would put arc lights up and work around the clock until it's done."

He said this approach would have been useful at Ainley Top.

He added: "I know it would cost money for 24 hours, but it would be done quicker."

A Calderdale Council spokesman said: "The bridge is being re-waterproofed to prevent deterioration to the structure.

"After the existing waterproofing has been removed concrete repairs are required to the top of the bridge deck.

"The extent of these repairs is unknown until the deck is exposed.

"The repair material can only be used when the temperature is above 5°C.

"Normally anticipated weather at this time of year would have allowed the concrete repairs to be undertaken.

"The actual loss of time due to the temperature and weather is two weeks.

"The anticipated completion date is Friday, April 28."