A MAIN Oldbury road has closed for a week, causing disruption for motorists, while urgent sewer repair works are carried out.

Birchfield Lane, off Birchley Island, closed to traffic today (Tuesday January 12) until next Tuesday (January 19) in the direction of Blackheath.

Sandwell Council said the closure is likely to cause disruption to all routes in the area and urged motorists to avoid the area at busy times.

It said motorists will not be able to turn right on to the McDonald’s car park off Birchfield Lane for the duration of the works.

Amey and Severn Trent are carrying out repairs to sewers in the area.

Traffic will be diverted via the A4123 Wolverhampton Road, Newbury Lane and Throne Road.

Councillor Jackie Taylor, Sandwell Council's Cabinet Member for Sustainable Transport, said: “We know this will cause disruption but it is very important to get these essential works completed.

“Severn Trent assure us they will work as quickly as possible and works will start on Tuesday 12 January and be completed by Tuesday 19 January."

Deputy Council Leader Councillor Maria Crompton said: “I urge drivers who do have to leave home for essential purposes to avoid the area if they can and, if not, follow the diversions in place.”

Stephen Morris, Reactive Waste Lead from Severn Trent, said: “We’re going to be carrying out essential urgent sewer repair works on Birchfield Lane, and to keep our teams and other road users safe, we will be working with traffic management in place.

“We’re really sorry for any disruption, but it will be our absolute priority to inspect and repair the sewer pipe, and ensure everything is back to normal as quickly as possible.”