Motorists to face misery

Motorists in Stourport are facing months of misery on the roads with four different major repair projects starting from next month, it has been announced.

Works in Vale Road, The Gilgal and Mitton Street in the town centre were due to start in August but residents and businesses successfully campaigned to have the work delayed over fears it may hit holiday trade.

A new detailed timetable of the necessary works has now been revealed by Worcestershire County Council with the first phase of road closures beginning on September 18.

Work, including replacement of water pipe mains, installation of new electricity cables, construction projects and repairs to street lighting in the area, will be carried out in three phases.

But the work has sparked fears that the town will be left "marooned" by the extensive road closures and diversions.

District councillor Mike Salter, who represents Mitton, said: "There is a fear that the centre of Stourport will effectively be marooned like an island.

"And while we accept the work is vital, there is no denying that it will be extremely disruptive."

Worcestershire County Council, Severn Trent Water, electricity supplier E.On and construction firm Balfour Beatty have agreed the schedule of works between them.