THE numerous roadworks and closures are beginning to take their toll on local businesses as large parts of the town grind to a halt every day.

Major works, combined with several accidents, meant drivers were left queuing for hours on Thursday evening and the problem is set to worsen next week.

Stratton Bridge, near Greenbridge, will close on Monday while electrification of the rail lines takes place.

Council chiefs have apologised for the problem and say they are working to address the issues, although some of it is out of their hands.

Utility and construction companies are trying to alter their plans while proposals to relax rules on some bus gates are being looked at.

A key source of the problem is Bruce Street Bridges, where flood mitigation work and improvements to the roads are being carried out.

However, it has proved a bottleneck leading to huge queues in the area.

Kate Whittingham, who works at AFL Telecommunications, based on the Hawksworth Industrial Estate, said the roadworks were making her daily commute a ‘nightmare’.

“It’s growing to be a serious concern for business,” she said. “The congestion is so bad.

“If they are going to do all the work at the same time, it doesn’t matter which way you go, there is going to be an issue.

“They are not prepared to do one bit, and the next bit after that. It’s ridiculous that it’s all being done at the same time. Every single way I go has roadworks. If they had done it one part at a time, there might be a way around it.

“The long-term benefit is all very well, but the short-term consequences of that decision are going to cost Swindon a lot of money.”

Coun Dale Heenan (Con, Covingham and Dorcan), the cabinet member for transport, has thanked drivers for their patience.

He said: “I must start off by saying thank you to all motorists in Swindon for their patience while these improvements to Swindon’s roads are going on.

“Swindon roads have not kept pace with the town’s growth and this is why work such as Bruce Street Bridges is so crucial.

“Due to the thousands of vehicles using this junction, any changes to improve the situation have serious impacts that cannot be avoided.

“When Network Rail notified the Council of their plans, it was not possible to reschedule the work at Bruce Street Bridges since it is part of the Great Western Way improvements which will last for 12 months, and would also have meant the disruption lasts for at least 18 months rather than three to four months.

“I have asked for a fresh look at opening up bus lanes like Polaris Way to give some small relief to businesses based in and around Hawksworth.

“Roadworks are planned months in advance but the Council and the utility companies must proactively respond to the concerns of residents and businesses as issues arise.”

Commuters are being asked to take extra time when heading out on journey while the works are taking place.