TRADERS in Newland Street, Coleford, are seething after learning the road is to be closed to traffic completely for nine weeks.

"The first we learned about it last week was a little notice in a plastic bag fixed to a pole," said Steve Young of Whitecliff Garage, one of the affected businesses.

He is now helping to organise a meeting this week (Thursday March 17, 4.30pm) to push for at least partial access for customers and traders after work on drains and sewers starts on March 28.

A 60-metre section of the road is to be excavated and total closure will mean a three mile detour via Clearwell for anyone travelling from Newland Street into Coleford.

The road, which is partially built over old culverts and has a major sewer conduit to one side, has been prone to flooding for years – some blaming the situation on developments in Coleford which channel storm water down the narrow valley.

"This road closure could cause financial ruin in Whitecliff," said Mr Young, who has now received a letter informing him of the impending closure.

"Welsh Water should have made sure we knew their plans well in advance – we haven't even had time to suggest any alternatives."

Welsh Water has been asked to comment on the issue but had not responded at the time the Review went to press.