RUSH-hour commuters were left stuck in heavy traffic early this morning as Sauchiehall Street closures came into place.

A section of the usually-bustling street has been closed to all traffic for a whole week.

Sauchiehall Street is shut off from Pitt Street/Scott Street to Blythswood Street/Rose Street.

The restrictions are in place between 9.30am and 3.30pm from Monday 19 until Wednesday March 21, 2018.

One driver told the Evening Times the “unexpected” works caught him by surprise as there was no ‘Road Closed Ahead’ sign as he turned into Sauchiehall Street from Charing Cross.

Read more: Sauchiehall Street road closures as part of Avenue project

He said: “Drivers weren’t aware of the closures ahead until they were caught up in the chaos head when they were being diverted away from Rose Street.

"Motorists were spilling out from all the side streets as well, only adding to the traffic.

"Cars were trying to swerve around the queues to get out - it was horrific.

"I thought I was going to be early to work, but actually ended up being late.

"There should be a sign at the top of Sauchiehall Street warning of the works ahead.”

Read more: Sauchiehall Street road closures as part of Avenue project

Glasgow City Council issued a warning to commuters on Thursday ahead of the works beginning.

The restrictions will also require the reversal of one-way traffic flow on Blythswood Street - between Bath Street and Sauchiehall Street - changing it to northbound only and the banning of southbound turns from Sauchiehall Lane into Blythswood Street.

North Hanover Street northbound - from George Square to Cathedral Street - will be closed for separate works from 1am on Saturday, March 17 and Monday 16.

Read more: Sauchiehall Street road closures as part of Avenue project

The Sauchiehall Street closures come as part of the £7.2 million Avenue project which began in January.

The project will take place along Sauchiehall Street between Charing Cross and Rose Street and will see the creation of a multifunctional service verge and two-way cycle lane on the northern side of the street.

The pavements will be widened to free up space for pedestrians and licensed tables and chairs on both sides of Sauchiehall Street.

Read more: Sauchiehall Street road closures as part of Avenue project

In addition, 28 trees will be planted along the Avenue, along with new bus shelters, cycle stands, seating, smart city infrastructure and improved street lighting.

The project is expected to be complete by the summer of 2019.