Concerns raised as more roadworks begin

They've endured months of roadworks already - now residents face even more road signs, barriers temporary traffic lights in Willenhall as another project gets under way.

Concerns have already been raised about the noise and inconvenience caused by works in and around Ashmore Lake.

Both water and gas works are being undertaken in the area with some residents saying they have been struggling to get on and off their driveways.

Severn Trent Water have started four months of pipe replacements which will cover the estate in phases. During the £1.5 million scheme until the end of March at least 17 streets will have undergone work.

It is currently being undertaken in Dovedale Avenue but diversion signs have been put in place around the estate, covering half the carriageway of some streets and causing some confusion.

It is the latest in a series of roadworks in Willenhall area starting from the summer.

In Dovedale Avenue, underground digging has started with machinery and plastic barriers in place.

Work is currently being carried out in front of Colin Markham's home. The 79 year-old said he is uncertain how long it is going to take.

"While they are working the tractors are in the middle of the road so you can't get through," he said.

"It is chaos, and the noise is unbearable. It is an inconvenience but there is nothing you can do, you have got to have water pipes."

Another resident in Dovedale Avenue, who did not want to be named, said: "It is an irritation to some people.

"It is confusing for visitors with all the road signs. I don't know if the kids are moving them around as they are facing in all directions."

Grandfather-of-two Simon Smith lives in nearby Alton Avenue where the project is expected to be rolled out next month.

The 52 year-old driver said he was concerned about the impact. "It is probably necessary but it is going to be an inconvenience. It went on in Pool Hayes Lane for a long time and that was chaos."

Severn Trent Water have said they are investing to replace old and tired water pipes with brand new ones. The company says advanced notice is given to residents.

The scheme come as National Grid are also doing some underground work in nearby Lucknow Road - causing further delays and congestion with just a one lane traffic flow in operation.

Student support worker at Wolverhampton University, Amarjit Singh, said it was causing problems with him having to leave his car in Cornwall Gate and walk to his house as a hole has been dug on the pavement outside.

The 39 year-old said: "I can't get a car onto the drive. I am having to park down the road instead and it is a nuisance. It is the noise and there is a lot of mess."

Another resident, who did not want to be named, added: "It is annoying because of the noise. When the temporary lights change all the traffic backs up. You don't want it outside your house."