Increased traffic on residential streets during a lengthy road closure has left neighbours feeling like they’re living “by the M4”.
London Road in Chippenham closed to through traffic, between Wiltshire Tyres and the Pack Horse Inn, on Thursday, July 25.
The closure will be in place until August 31 and marked the start of a £2 million Wessex Water scheme to tackle flooding in the town.
Residents say the loss of the busy route led to a sharp rise in traffic on the surrounding residential roads in the first few days of the project, causing conflict with neighbours.
READ MORE: Road closures to begin as £2 million sewer upgrades kick off
People have reported several incidents on Wood Lane and Cricketts Lane, with one neighbour joking she felt like she was living near the M4.
Speaking on Facebook, Catey Jane said: “I woke up this morning thinking our house had been deposited at the side of the M4, never seen so much traffic.
“I think the council need to reroute somewhere else not down Wood Lane, it's an accident waiting to happen.”
Lucy Williams added: “So far, traffic has quadrupled, one car hit, one woman almost knocked down on the Wood Lane and Crickets Lane corner, and that’s just the first weekend.
“Hopefully they will sort this out and make it clear that it’s not the diversion route.
“This residential road, made narrow with parked cars, is currently a bigger accident waiting to happen.”
Kate Stewart claims there have also been issues with the speed of diverted traffic.
She added: “Sadly the speed people are driving down our road is also a concern.
“It gets used as a rat run. Kind request to non-Wood Lane residents... please use the bypass.”
Wessex Water says drivers should divert via Pewsham Way, rather than Wood Lane, and added it is in talks with Wiltshire Council over moving or adding signage to advertise this.
A spokesperson said: “We have worked closely with Wiltshire Council with regards to the impact of the essential flood alleviation project in Long Close on adjacent roads, including timing the closure of London Road to coincide with the current school holidays.
“An agreed signposted diversion route via Pewsham Way for vehicles, including buses, is in place but we are aware of local concerns around the use of Wood Lane and remain in consultation with the local authority about the location and prominence of highway signs in the area.”
A 10-metre deep storage tank is being constructed off Long Close and will be used to reduce flood risk once completed.
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