BROMSGROVE'S recently spruced up Worcester Road will not now be dug up for a new gas pipe to be laid.

News that the new road and path surfaces would have to be disturbed just a short time after the road was officially opened following a £270,000 revamp had angered councillors and officials at Bromsgrove District Council.

Gas supplier Transco wanted to lay a pipeline from a main in the road to offices at Bellway House after receiving an application for supplies just a week after the refurbishment was completed. But they have now had a change of heart and have decided instead to lay the pipe from Paradise Row, off Station Street.

A spokesman told the Advertiser/Messenger this week: "When asked to provide a gas supply we are compelled to give it. We have examined this case and found we can lay a pipe from an alternative direction, and thereby not have to dig a trench in Worcester Road." He added Transco is footing the extra costs involved.

On Monday Worcestershire Highways partnership in Bromsgrove manager, Jon Fraser, said: "We are pleased Transco has changed its mind and Worcester Road will not now be disrupted."

During refurbishment work part of a demolished but at one time very popular pub was revealed. The brick lined vaulted cellars that had been part of the George Hotel were discovered less than a foot beneath the path alongside Blockbuster video which now occupies the site. Local historian and author, Dr Alan Richards, said they could date from the mid-1700s when the pub, which was linked by a door to the old Town Hall nearby, was rebuilt. The cellars have now been filled in and the area made safe.