MOTORISTS have blasted the "traffic hell" caused by a road closure outside Kidderminster during peak commuter hours.

Roadworks on the A442 Bridgnorth Road in Habberley began on May 2, with diversions along the Habberley Road and B4190 also interrupted by roadworks from May 20.

Initial estimates stated both would be shut in the week from 9:30am to 3.30pm, although work was instead carried out between 7.30am and 4pm, leaving commuters frustrated.

Motorist Sue Williams said: "For commuters from Stourport, Bewdley to Kidderminster and beyond, each morning has been traffic hell due to the decision to close this road.

"Every route is at a standstill including Stourport town centre, Bewdley centre and all other routes.

"Why not work through the night, opt for traffic lights or simply close the road from 9.30am?

"Why should we have to put up with this on a regular basis?"

Diamond Buses also announced on Monday that they were experiencing delays of three services on the route as a result of the works.

A statement read: "Due to the extended closure of Habberley Road, we are currently experiencing delays with our 2, 2L and no. 10 service.

"Please accept our apologies for any inconvenience caused."

Worcestershire County Council have since postponed work to re-open the B4190 on Tuesday, May 24, and insist the future roadworks will not require any full road closure.

A spokesperson added: "The closure of the B4190 was the result of routine pre-patching works.

"The road has now re-opened."

Kidderminster has been hit with a number of delays due to simultaneous roadworks in and around the town centre in recent months.

In March, businesses, residents and visitors were forced to negotiate long traffic jams as a result of roadworks by National Grid and Worcestershire County Council highways.