FED-UP residents in Alvechurch are having to put up with continued roadworks in Swan Street as contractors carry on searching for a gas leak.
Local gas network Cadent closed the road a fortnight ago in an effort to find the leak, posting diversion signs around the village to Redditch via Rowney Green.
However the firm has now said that, owing to the complex nature of the gas pipe repairs, the roadworks will continue.
Local Councillor Adrian Smith said the closure had caused problems for local residents and commuters alike.
“It’s the inconsistency of the work,” he said.
“Sometimes the road is closed to through traffic, other times they will open it up and have traffic lights in place and cars can pass.
“Next thing you know the road is closed again.”
Parish Council chair Councillor Andy Humphries said: “I know it’s a problem and has caused us some grief, but you have to keep this in perspective: We’re talking about a gas leak here in a residential area and sometimes these leaks are difficult to find and repair.
“That’s the priority for our village.”
However he acknowledged that some impatient motorists had taken to driving the wrong way down one-way School Lane, adding to traffic problems.
Cadent says it doesn’t know how long the work will take but every effort will be made to complete it as soon as possible and they will keep people informed.
A spokesperson said: “Access will be maintained to homes and businesses but traffic that normally uses Swan Street as a through route should follow the signed diversion via Redditch Road, A4441 Alvechurch Bypass, B4120, Birmingham Road and Red Lion Street.
“We’re sorry for any inconvenience caused. To keep staff and road-users safe we need to close the road while we do the work.”
