A SINKHOLE on an historic city centre road has reopened forcing it to close for a second time in two months.

The area outside the Old Greyhound pub on New Street has been cordoned off and signs have been put in place saying the road will be closed for at least two weeks due to the sewer collapsing.

The first sinkhole appeared at the end of August when a 10cm wide hole opened up outside Beautiful Flowers in Reindeer Court and the road was closed as a safety precaution.

Kim Wilson, barmaid at The Old Greyhound said the sinkhole caused some flooding in the pub’s cellar.

“We managed to save most of the stock and it’s all been cleaned out now but it was obviously a bit of an inconvenience.”

She also said the closure of New Street has had some negative effect on customers.

“Some of the people that drink here are disabled and it can be a bit more difficult for them to get down the street,” she added.

Despite the disruption, other shop owners have said they have been unaffected and emphasise that New Street is still open to customers.

Richard Broomhead, owner of Chocolate Deli, said: “The contractors have been very helpful and are obviously working hard to get this sorted.

“New Street is very much open for business.”

Terry Goodwin-Jones, owner of The Kings Gallery, said: “The entire road remains open to pedestrians so hopefully it shouldn’t affect business at all.

“People appear to be visiting the businesses and we look forward to welcoming customers old and new throughout the works.”

Phoebe Dawson, Worcester BID manager, said: “The businesses have been assured that the work will be completed as a priority and to the highest standard.

“The BID team are in constant communication with those businesses affected and will continue to offer support throughout.”