Motorists can expect long delays on a busy Dudley road as six weeks of roadworks start today.

The work sees more than 700 metres of gas pipes in Stourbridge Road and Hilderic Crescent replaced with tough, durable plastic pipes that will last at least 80 years.

While the work takes place, one lane of Stourbridge Road will be temporarily closed, meaning there will be just one lane of traffic for vehicles travelling towards Scotts Green Island. Stephen Murray, who heads up Cadent’s gas mains replacement programme in the West Midlands, said:

“Our work is vital to keep energy flowing. This essential project is a significant investment to ensure that local people continue to enjoy safe and reliable gas supplies for cooking and heating.

“We appreciate this is a busy area and we have planned the project for the school summer holidays when traffic is usually lighter to help ensure that any disruption is reduced.

“We appreciate people’s patience and co-operation while we do this work.”

Cadent said traffic management arrangements have been planned and arranged with Dudley Council.