RESIDENTS in the Purton area may face some disruption while essential structural and resurfacing work takes place on Watkins Corner.

The work, which has started and is expected to be completed in seven weeks and once complete, motorists will notice a much improved surface, says Wiltshire Council.

Due to the work, Hayes Knoll Road will be temporarily closed.

The diversion route will take motorists to Packhorse Lane, The Pry, then towards Swindon via Purton Road, Thamesdown Drive and out to the A419 then north towards Cricklade.

When any road is closed the diversion route needs to be of an equal classification or better. Therefore for a B road, the official diversion has to be a B road or A road. This means Hayes Knoll Road or Bentham Lane could not be used.

The decision to close Hayes Knoll Road was made by the council to prevent any safety or traffic issues being caused by motorists using this route rather than the official diversion. However, this road will be accessible for those residents who have been provided with permits.

Wiltshire Council is also reminding drivers of heavy goods vehicles (HGVs)  that, due to the village’s weight restriction limit, they should not cut through Purton.

It is advised that HGVs use the official diversion route to avoid being reported and potentially prosecuted as an active lorry watch scheme operates in the area.

The council will try to keep disruption to a minimum and apologises for any inconvenience caused while these essential works are carried out.