Roadworks hit a hitch

Workmen are battling to complete controversial roadworks in Stafford on time after "unforeseen" issues with gas pipes.

Staff are working overtime and weekends in a bid to end the work which has caused traffic misery for motorists in the town.

Businesses have been hit hard by the gas main replacement in the Gaol Road/Sandon Road area of the town.

Work has seen some roads closed and others reduced to one-way.

Some business owners have claimed shoppers have avoided the area because of the works, which started at the end of June.

Staffordshire County Council said problems had emerged with the gas mains on Astonfields Road which means restrictions there will continue for another month.

Tom Hobbins, spokesman for the county council said: "Problems with the infrastructure of the pipe were undetectable above ground but have become apparent in the course of the works.

"The change of schedule will not increase the total duration of road works in the area and staff are working weekends and overtime to keep the programme on track."

Meanwhile, traffic can now move more freely following the early completion of works on other neighbouring roads.

Two-way traffic returned to Browning Street on Thursday. Work on the road was due to be completed on Sunday but finished four days ahead of schedule.

Sandon Road also returned to normal two-way traffic between its junctions with Peel Terrace and Freeman Street this weekend. Gaol Road also reopened to two-way traffic between its junctions with Sandon Road and Crooked Bridge Road.

Sandon Road will return to two- way traffic up to its junction with Astonfields Road in mid September.

The gas mains replacement has seen Staffordshire Highways work with mains utility companies to improve the highway and maintain vital gas and electricity supplies in the area.

It's been coordinated by Staffordshire Highways to deliver three schemes in one - minimising disruption but businesses have criticised the impact it has.

Hugh Barnes, of Browse Antiques, in Sandon Road, has threatened legal action after his business fell by 90 per cent.

Highways councillor Mike Maryon said the works had been carefully coordinated adding: "We're pleased the project has been completed on Browning Street and that traffic flow can return to normal on this section.

"We'd like to thank businesses, residents and motorists for being patient and understanding and can assure them the remainder will be finished as soon as is possible.

"This programme of works has been vital and taken a great deal of organisation to coordinate."