Thirteen weeks of roadworks are on the way to Dudley from next week, signalling more misery for motorists, transport chiefs announced today.

Nine roads will face closures when they are dug up as water mains are replaced. The project, near Jessons CofE Primary School in School Street, will start on July 28 when four roads will shut.

But drivers will face more closures when the new school terms begins in September, when a further five roads will be shut for almost two months.

Parents were today warned to steer clear of the area and park in alternative spots when the school term begins. The joint project by Dudley Council and South Staffordshire Water is part of a wider 18-month scheme affecting 64 streets across Dudley.

Traders and residents have already raised concerns about the ongoing disruption.

The latest works will close School Street, Grange Road, Grange Street and Nelson Road from July 28 until September 5 in an attempt to minimise disruption.

Between September 5 to October 31, Russell Street, Edward Street, Alexandra Street, Vicarage Prospect and Parkway Road will be shut.

People will be allowed to leave their cars at the Dudley Leisure Centre car park, in Dock Lane, for the duration of the works.

Parents and children are advised to use the pedestrian crossing on Wellington Road and walk to the school via Russell Street and Nelson Road.

Transport chief Councillor Patrick Harley, said: “We are working closely to ensure a co-ordinated approach to road closures, with the overall aim of condensing the period of disruption to all road users and pedestrians, as much as possible.”

In brighter news for motorists, the £12.3 million Burnt Tree island roadworks project is still on track to be completed by Thursday.