DUDLEY drivers are set for delays when engineers begin work on the final phase of a major water main repair.

Parts of Birmingham New Road near Coseley will be closed for repairs after the completion of work to fix a leak in a pipe measuring 1,000mm in diameter which runs under the carriageway.

The work will see lane closures between the Shaw Road and Ivyhouse Lane junctions, with diversions through the Black Country Route (A463/A461) to Burnt Tree Island. Both lanes southbound and one lane northbound will be closed from 6.30pm on February 14, until midnight or earlier on 17, while both lanes northbound and one lane southbound will be closed from 6.30pm on February 21 until midnight or earlier on 24.

Customer service director for South West Water, Rachel Barber, said: “By working with the council, and by including some overnight working, we will limit the disruption caused to road users and local residents. “Nevertheless, we do still apologise to road users for any inconvenience caused by this necessary work.”

Councillor Khurshid Ahmed, Dudley Council’s cabinet member for transportation, added: “This last set of road closures will ensure that the final stage of the works are completed as quickly and safely as possible.”