Gas main repairs leads to traffic and plummet in trade

Doncaster Road has been closed since Friday, March 17, leading to lengthy delays on surrounding routes and a drop in trade for businesses.

Jeffrey Sixsmith, landlord of the Cross Keys pub, said he had still not had any contact from National Grid despite the closure being in place for almost two weeks.

He said: “It’s been an absolute nightmare. They didn’t even let us know they were closing the road either.

“We just went out with the dogs one morning and saw the road closed signs. We’ve still not had any contact from National Grid no-one has even knocked on our door.”

People wanting to visit family at The Beeches Care Home are having to park in our car park and walk up.

Mr Sixsmith said people weren’t aware they could still use Doncaster Road to access the pub and other businesses.

He added: “People are avoiding coming in because they think they cant get in because of the signs and the cones.

“The traffic has been a nightmare, too. It’s bad enough here at the best of times but this has been unbelievable.”

There has also been heavy traffic on Manvers Way during both the morning and afternoon rush-hours as motorists sought alternative routes.

A National Grid spokesman said two leaks had been repaired but its workers suspected others further along the network.

He added the plan was to reopen the section of road where the work has been carried out over the weekend but then carry out further work between Beech Road and Avenue Road from Monday.

The spokesman said: “We are carrying out an essential repair to the gas mains network.

“This work will help ensure people in the area keep on enjoying safe and reliable gas supplies for cooking and heating.

“If people think they can smell gas they should call 0800 111 999.”