Rush hour traffic warning as July 1 protests end

Congestion warnings have been raised in Admiralty and Central, and drivers heading in rush hour traffic to the area have been asked to avoid unless "necessary" by transport bosses.

Chater Road and Jackson Road were closed to the public, but have reopened after the protest there was dispersed around 8am.

It's unclear what impact the road closures will have on rush hour traffic, however, motorists are being asked to plan journeys earlier for unexpected delays.

At 8.30am traffic on Connaught Road Central appeared to be at a crawl eastbound, but traffic heading west was flowing freely. Traffic eastbound on Des Voeux Road Central was normal, while westbound lanes were clear.

Banker Stephen Chen, 29, said he believed the overnight protests were largely responsible for his cross-harbour bus travel woes into work today. "I was delayed for more than 20 minutes but I find it pretty acceptable, he said.

David Ip, also working in finance, noticed how his taxi from home in Sai Wan Ho "took a little longer than usual." The 36-year-old said he wasn't fussed as he supported yesterday's the pro-democracy rally.

Exits at Central Station MTR were briefly shuttered due to demonstrations but have since reopened. Police officers could close public transport if delays from fresh protests develop.

Affected bus routes had been diverted. Members of the public remain advised to avoid driving to the affected or congested areas, especially Admiralty and Central unless necessary.

"Depending on the prevailing circumstances, closures of roads, traffic diversions, alterations and suspension of public transport services may be introduced by the police."