Town drivers facing summer of misery

Sedgley is bracing itself for a summer of traffic misery as a major project gets under way to modernise the area's gas network.

The work, which is expected to cause disruption on a commuter road between Dudley and Wolverhampton, will begin on Monday at the junction of School Street and Bilston Street.

It will then continue in phases over the next seven weeks, with the scheme to be completed before the schools reopen in September. Extensive traffic management is to be used during the scheme.

This will include the installation of temporary traffic lights and diversions.

The scheme has been planned by Dudley Council in conjunction with the National Grid.

Bosses have pledged access to businesses and the town's car parks will be available at all times to ensure vital trade in the town is not affected over the summer holidays.

But they have admitted there will be disruption along the route. New pipes will be fitted as part of the project which bosses say are hard wearing and should last for up to 80 years with little or no maintenance.

They add the work is necessary to ensure the town's gas supply remains reliable for decades to come.

Where possible new pipes will be inserted through the old one, reducing the amount of digging required.

It is hoped this technique will help to minimise disruption along the route which is a commuter road between Dudley and Wolverhampton.

After work has been completed at the junction the scheme will move to High Street, taking in the section between Bilston Street and Dudley Street.

The third phase will take place in Dudley Street, from the Bull Ring to Catholic Lane, before moving to Townsend Avenue, Ettymore Road and Hall Street.

Final works will take place on Gospel End Street.

Spokesman Dave Garbett said: "I appreciate that work of this kind can cause disruption to residents and motorists.

"However this will be a short-term inconvenience for a long-term benefit."