DRIVERS can breathe a sigh of relief with major roadworks due to finish ahead of schedule.

Roadworks closed the busy Gilgal Road which takes traffic heading from the A449 Worcester to Kidderminster main road into Stourport, last month.

After four weeks of diversions, the Gilgal is due to re-open a week ahead of schedule at 6am on Thursday, October 15.

The closure allowed utility works to be carried out while Worcestershire County Council improved street lighting.

Roadworks now move to Mitton Street, with traffic down to one lane from Friday, October 16, for up to four weeks.

Derek Prodger, county council cabinet member for roads thanked traders and residents “for their patience and understanding.” during the works.

Severn Trent Water and Central Networks were also fitting new pipes and cables during the closure.

Fraser Pithie, Severn Trent’s senior operations manager said: “The results show the local community we are serious about working together to reduce inconvenience and disruption.”