Traffic at a gridlocked crossroads is expected to return to normal next week.

Problems with high voltage electricity cables caused BT to suspend work at the junction between Elstree Hill Road, Watford Road and Barnet Lane last week.

However the temporary traffic signals and cones remained in place, leading to continued traffic jams.

A spokesman for Hertfordshire County Council explained the delay in restoring the original traffic signals was because the old equipment had been removed and needed to be replaced.

The original layout of signals should be up and running before Monday.

Work at the junction is expected to restart in April, by which time Power Networks should have diverted the underground power cables.

The spokesman said: “On behalf of the contractors and utility companies involved in this scheme, the county council apologises for any inconvenience caused by the work and the change to the planned schedule.

“When completed, the improvements to the junction will benefit the travelling public by easing the flow of traffic and making the junction safer for all users.”