Drivers braced as work begins

Motorists are bracing themselves for weeks of misery after major roadworks kicked off along one of Stourbridge’s busiest routes today.

Hagley Road was closed off between Stourbridge ring road and Oldswinford Cross this morning for the start of essential works, which are expected to take six weeks to complete.

Advanced works carried out by National Grid Gas last month on a small section of the road were successfully completed, paving the way for the main project to begin.

National Grid Gas, Severn Trent Water and Dudley Council are joining forces to carry out work at the same time instead of following separate schedules leading to the road being dug up repeatedly.

It is hoped the link-up will cut the amount of disruption along the route, which is one of the busiest in Stourbridge. A diversion has been put in place along Heath Lane, Worcester Street and the Ring Road.

Complete closure of the road is needed to first complete work on new gas mains and then the replacement of a main sewer between Union Street and the Ring Road.

Councillor Angus Adams, cabinet member for transportation, said: “We apologise in advance for any inconvenience caused.”