THERE’S more traffic misery ahead for people affected by Redditch Eastern Gateway roadworks on the A4023 Coventry Highway in Redditch.
The slip road to the A435 which was due to re-open this weekend could be closed for another two months after contractors uncovered an unexpected Severn Trent water pipe that needs removal.
As a result Warwickshire County Council have sent round notices to some residents in Winyates Green notifying them the road might not re-open until September 21 – two months away.
It spells more traffic delay for commuters and more misery for local people living in Mappleborough Green through which the traffic is being diverted.
Local Eastern Gateway campaigner Len Quartly said: “There’s nothing we can do about it except hope that they can remove it as quickly as possible.
“I feel sorry for the people of Mappleborough Green who might have two more months of diverted traffic to put up with.”
One of the village’s parish councillors, Maureen Berry, a member of the Eastern Gareway Steering Group said: “What is particularly annoying is that we live in Warwickshire and yet the county council haven’t seen fit to tell us about this.
“The whole thing is totally disjointed and the cracks are showing.”
A Severn Trent spokesperson said: “We’re continuing to work with Warwickshire County Council, on the safe removal of a water pipe that has been discovered as part of their work on the A4203.
“Before we can remove the pipe, we need to carry out checks and risk assessments.
“We’re hoping to be able to start work as soon as possible, and if all goes to plan, work removing the pipe should only take one day.”
Councillor Jeff Clarke, Portfolio holder for Transport and Planning at Warwickshire County Council said: “The road closure to the eastbound carriageway has now been extended to late September.
“This delay is due to additional works on an existing Severn Trent water main.
“Closure of the eastbound carriageway is necessary to enable the principal contractor, Fitzgerald Civil Engineering, to work safely and reduce the need for further delays to road users.”
