AN MP has called for repairs to a bridge to be hurried as Old Hill roadworks cause "misery" for residents who "don't see any progress being made."

James Morris MP has asked for "speedier action" over repair works to a canal bridge on Station Road, near Old Hill train station, following numerous complaints from frustrated residents and local businesses.

The road was closed in August 2022 due to structural issues affecting the bridge with work is expected to continue until Autumn.

A diversion is in place around Coombs Road, Haden Hill Road, Halesowen Road and Beauty Bank, but some drivers have been using High Haden Road and High Haden Crescent as a rat-run, causing frustration for residents.

Halesowen News: This bridge is being repaired This bridge is being repaired (Image: Google)

James said: "Whilst I fully understand the bridge on Station Road needs to be made safe in the interests of drivers, pedestrians and those using the canal; the length of time these works are taking is causing misery for local residents and businesses, especially when they don’t see any progress being made.

“That’s why I have written to Sandwell Council for an update and urge for speedier action so that we can get the road to be re-opened as soon as possible.”

Councillor Kerrie Carmichael, Leader of Sandwell Council, said: "I realise this road closure is causing disruption and inconvenience and have written to around 300 residents in and around the area most affected to reassure residents the highways team and partners are working as quickly as they can to make the bridge safe and reopen the road.

"The bridge requires strengthening to withstand the amount of traffic that passes over it daily.

"We have a duty of care to ensure the road and bridge are safe for highway users.

"Repairing Station Road bridge is a complex project which requires significant investigation work, third party liaison, permissions and approvals.

"We are now at the stage where site investigations are being completed prior to the start of bridge strengthening work in the spring and continue to work towards Station Road being fully open later this year.

"I urge local road users to use the diversion route which is clearly signposted - Beauty Bank, Halesowen Road, Haden Hill Road, Coombs Road and vice versa.

"We thank residents and local businesses for their patience and apologise for the inconvenience but these works are necessary to ensure the safety of the bridge for the next 100 years.”