Roadworks and major tailbacks hit traders

Traders have been forced to cut workers' hours due to roadworks on a main Kidderminster route which has crippled their trade, it was claimed today.Roadworks to resurface Comberton Hill started this week and have been causing major tailbacks.

Manager of Captain Cod chip shop, Matthew Bennet, said trade had been down by as much as 60 per cent this week forcing staff to work fewer hours.

He said: "It is hitting us hard. We have reduced working hours.

"It is causing major tailbacks."

Worker Linda Littleton added: "We have cut back the hours by one or two a day. The roadworks are killing us. It's unbelievable. Nobody wants to stop so they just drive on."

Drivers currently cannot go down Comberton Hill and have to go on a lengthy diversion down Chester Road North or Chester Road South. During rush hour this has been causing major delays for drivers.

Shop owners have now been informed the roadworks should be completed by 12pm tomorrow - which should clear the way for visitors to a big Doctor Who-themed event being held at the Severn Valley Railway at Kidderminster.