STOURBRIDGE motorists face traffic misery from tomorrow (Thursday) following the closure of the A491 Amblecote High Street for vital maintenance work.

The road will be closed to northbound traffic until April 10 and is certain to cause traffic congestion for drivers using Stourbridge Ring Road.

An alternative route has been created for drivers travelling north which will involve leaving the ring road via the A458 Enville Street, Bridgnorth Road, A461 High Street and Wollaston Road.

Southbound traffic into Stourbridge remains unaffected, while access to frontages will be maintained where safe to do so.

Passengers using the 246 and 247 bus services are advised to embark at Wollaston Road and then catch southbound buses 246, 256 and 257.

A spokesman for Centro said: "Buses using this route are very frequent so passengers shouldn't have to wait too long. But for those passengers who are really struggling while alternative arrangements are in place, should contact ring and ride on 0121 327 8128."

Helen Wilkins, from Dudley Council's traffic and road safety department, said: "Obviously we are aware of the congestion these road works will cause.

"The work is essential to facilitate a gas main replacement and we will just have to make the best of it.

"Traffic will be monitored, but once the road is dug up, there is very little we can do.

"We're just hoping the work will be completed as quickly as possible."