Residents have been thanked for their patience as a main road is set to reopen today after five weeks of diversion disruption. 

Worcestershire County Council and Severn Trent have shared their delight that the A448 Kidderminster Road closure is set to end seven weeks earlier than expected. 

The A448 has been closed at Chaddesley Corbett since February 19 for water mains replacement work that was not due to be completed until May 13. 

The scheme involved the closure of a section of the busy carriageway with a lengthy traffic diversion in place along the necessary A-roads during the proposed 12-week project. 

County Councillor Marcus Hart said: "I am delighted that Severn Trent has undertaken the works so efficiently that it has enabled the road to be re-opened ahead of schedule and I am grateful to them for this. 

"I know this full road closure has been an inconvenience for local businesses and residents and thank everyone for their patience and understanding." 

The work has caused concern amongst businesses and residents over the past few weeks with more than 100 people attending a public drop-in session about the scheme. 

Severn Trent teams were in attendance to answer questions along with representatives from Watertight who had worked with another local company, Synergen Utilities, on the project. 

Community Communications Officer at Severn Trent, Paul Hughes, said: "We are delighted to have finished this vital mains replacement project so quickly as we know how disruptive road diversions can be for locals and businesses. 

"Our contractor teams have worked extremely hard to get this scheme finished early, helped with the aid of specialist rock drill equipment."

The final checks on the work were completed on Thursday (March 21) with the road set to reopen from 5pm tonight (Friday, March 22). 

Mr Hughes added: "We want to thank everyone for their patience and understanding. Road closures like this are inconvenient but are vital to protect our workers and the public as we carry out essential mains replacement. 

"The Chaddesley Corbett works are hugely important as they will improve the water supply to households in the surrounding area who have suffered issues in the past."