DRIVERS are facing long delays because of roadworks caused by a collapsed sewer in the city which is now being repaired.

There have been traffic delays on The Tything and Upper Tything in Barbourne in Worcester as Severn Trent Water (STW) roadworks are underway on a collapsed sewer.

Delays are expected to last well into the New Year, meaning delays for drivers returning to work.

STW has apologised for the disruption and warned drivers and pedestrians the roadworks will remain there over the Christmas period. The work at Upper Tything and Back Walk is expected to last until January 19.

Traffic management is in place with traffic control (two-way signals) as the lane near Machine Mart is coned off.

Worcester News: DELAYS: The lane closure has caused delays in The Tything and Upper Tything DELAYS: The lane closure has caused delays in The Tything and Upper Tything (Image: Newsquest)

One driver, speaking on Thursday, said: "There was traffic queuing back along Castle Street because of the lane closure and the temporary lights. I could see workmen and a digger on site.

"I noticed drivers turning left onto the A38 near Salon 54 (Britannia Square) were struggling to get out onto the main road. Because of the heavy rain, the traffic was moving even more slowly than usual which added to the delays caused by the lights."

The sewer collapse happened on the A38 The Tything, not far from Machine Mart, with a lane closed.

A STW spokesperson said repairs started on Wednesday.

Matt Jeynes, STW team manager, said: "We're sorry for any disruption caused by a collapsed sewer pipe on the A38 where we've temporarily had to close a lane of traffic.

"While we've made sure that traffic can still flow in both directions along The Tything ahead of Christmas, we know that lane closures are frustrating, so we want to thank everyone for their patience.

"We also know this is a busy, well-used route in the city so we've planned our repairs to begin after Christmas to minimise any disruption and will work closely with our working partners to manage this over the next few days with an aim of having everything back to normal as quickly as possible."