Rush hour commuters are being met with "significant delays" of one hour in the centre of Oxford. 

Motorists are being held up in both directions along Cowley Road from The Plain to Hollow Way this afternoon (Friday, March 24). 

A statement from Oxford Bus Company around 4pm said: "We are currently facing delays of up to 60 minutes along Cowley road. This appears to be due to congestion. 

"We apologise for any inconvenience caused."

READ MORE: Oxford bus passengers 'asked to get off' due to severe delays

Oxfordshire County Council has warned drivers to find an alternative route where possible.

The AA is reporting an average speed of five mph. 

It is understood the delays are being caused by temporary traffic lights which Oxford Bus Company has stated are "automated and unmanned". 

The Oxford Mail has also been told bus passengers were even asked to get off due to the severity of the delays. 

Inrix, which provides traffic analysis, said motorists are moving "very slowly" on the A4142 eastern bypass westbound at A4158 Oxford Road (Littlemore roundabout) from Cowley.