WORK on two major routes into Gloucester city centre is causing traffic woe – but there's a silver lining, according to council top brass.
New electricity cabling is being laid by Western Power Distribution in Cheltenham Road, near the Oxstalls university campus.
It's causing headaches for commuters and adds strain to motorists already avoiding the closed Kingsholm Road because of major water pipe and flood alleviation work there by Severn Trent.
But the fact utility companies are prepared to spend here proves Gloucester is on the right track, said city council leader Paul James (C, Longlevens).
"When you have roadworks take place on a major route into the city it's going to cause problems. But I've spoken to Western Power who told me they are putting as many resources onto it as possible," he said. "It's very positive that the big utility companies are investing in Gloucester and prepared to spend money here."
In Kingsholm, traders who have seen business decimated are hoping the work, which started in June, will finish soon.
Teague's Bar owner Gary Teague said he's lost £60,000 since Severn Trent first started digging up the street. He said: "That's what I'll apply for in compensation. It's got a bit better with the rugby starting and we're expecting to do well on Saturday with a late kick-off. I just want it finished."
Western Power spokesman Michael Clarke said their work was part of a £5.5million investment programme between Brockworth and Castle Meads. They aim to be finished in Cheltenham Road before Christmas, he said.
Severn Trent did not respond to The Citizen by the time of going to press.
Elsewhere, the A4136 in Plump Hill is closed this week for resurfacing.