DISRUPTIVE works lasting for nearly four months are set to start on a main road in Ashton Keynes this week.

Residents have been critical of Thames Water for not consulting with the village before the decision was made to close off part of the B4696.

The 16-week road closure is part of a project by the company to replace three kilometres of a main water pipe that has burst 30 times in the past 10 years.

Ashton Keynes Parish Council chairman Ian Woods said the road was a popular trunk route for HGVs and residents were concerned about motorists cutting through the village during the works.

“There is a potential for a lot of traffic coming through the village and a lot of people are really concerned about that, particularly at the primary school,” he said.

After a public meeting at the school two weeks ago, Thames Water assured residents that a diversion through Cricklade on the B4040 would be signposted as far away as Royal Wootton Bassett and Swindon.

Working with Wiltshire Council, the water company also pledged to provide funding for six new crossings at school times and police patrols to monitor traffic and enforce a weight limit restriction, if necessary.

Works are due to start on the B4696 from the junction with Cox’s Hill to Ashton Road, Minety, They are expected to continue until June 20.