THERE was delight for the town at the weekend as the roadworks on the A350 finally came to an end.
The resurfacing work which has stretched from one end of the town to the other has caused misery as long traffic queues built up.
Works began in late September and business owners voiced their concern at the effect it may have on footfall in Westbury, particularly so close to Christmas. The closure also affected the annual Remembrance Parade which had to be cancelled.
The roadworks involve reconstruction and resurfacing of the carriageway, footway and kerbing, drainage repairs, replacement of road markings and the adjustment of ironwork such as drain covers. Wiltshire Council has invested more than £400,000 in improving the vital route through the town.
The issues caused by the roadworks has caused many to take to social media sites. On Facebook Derek Lewis said, “On Tuesday I wanted to park in the High Street car park, but was told by the workmen that I’d have to park elsewhere and walk there as they wouldn’t let me through, I feel sorry for all the shops as they must be losing trade.” Whilst Jamie Tierney joked, “Don’t know why people complain. Only an hour diversion out of their 30 second route, no biggie.”
Alternatively, some are supporting the roadworks as it will solve some of the pothole problems in the town and improve driving conditions. Jenni Cooper said, “People are moaning about the traffic and shutting the roads off but they would soon moan about the potholes and how bad the roads are. The roads are finally getting sorted – wow, some delays – deal with it, everyone else has to just think once done, Westbury will have nice smooth roads.”
