Road misery to hit town

Motorists face months of misery on a main commuter route around Kidderminster during the latest work by Severn Trent Water.

Lengthy tailbacks and delays are forecast on the A449 through Torton, a main route for motorists travelling into Kidderminster or to Birmingham or Wolverhampton.

Officials have warned that closures and traffic diversions could be in operation for up to six months.

The work has been delayed several times because of road repairs being carried out around the area by Worcestershire County Council but has now become so urgent officials say it has to start on November 12.

Many road closures and traffic diversions still have to be finalised with the Highways Agency.

But a spokesman for Severn Trent said works were scheduled into a six-month time-frame.

"A number of road diversions and closures are planned. The A449 will have traffic light controls on them.

"Droitwich Road will be shut for about 14 weeks of the scheme. Rectory Lane will need to be closed for about six week and Torton Lane will be shut throughout the project, at the request of the Highways Authority.

"We will be giving advance warning to residents of road closures and raising awareness of the scheme."

David Rowe, project engineer, said: "This is a large water mains replacement scheme that is absolutely necessary in order to provide the best possible service to our customers.

"Unfortunately, it will cause some traffic problems in the area but we will do our utmost to keep this to a minimum as far as possible.

"We have been working with the local council and highways authority to ensure that the best possible traffic management scheme is put in place. We would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused."