Campaigners have hit the project since construction was due to start in the New Year.

Protesters have delayed site preparation work via a series of tactics including occupying trees and tunnels and sitting in front of diggers.

Police have made a number of arrests as a group known as the Combe Haven Defenders continues its campaign.

Protesters have dubbed their action the “Second Battle of Hastings” and have set up a camp near the site.

The 5km link road has been dogged by delays since it was granted planning permission in 2009.

Funding for the route was finally agreed in last March’s budget when Chancellor George Osborne confirmed the provision of £56m to support construction.

A spokesperson for the Combe Haven Defenders said: ““The second Battle of Hastings has now begun in earnest.

“We intend to do everything in our power to peacefully resist this Road, and urge all those concerned about the environment, the countryside, or the public purse to join us.”