TRADERS in Dolgellau fear major roadworks in the town will kill trade.

Shopkeepers are bracing themselves for three weeks of hardship after Welsh Water dug up one of the town’s busiest streets this week.

New water pipes are currently being laid under Smithfield Street, between the old magistrates’ court building and the Chinese Cottage, leaving residents and visitors facing a detour of well over a mile to get across town.

Although most business owners agree that the work is necessary, there are concerns over the length of time that the road will be closed and that other methods could have been employed to keep traffic flowing through the town.

“The shops are dead,” said town councillor Jo Checkley, who owns a pet store.

“Nobody can drive through the town so people are being forced to go right around and aren’t stopping.

“For three weeks this situation will continue. You wouldn’t get away with it in a big city. They would do it at more convenient times or get it done quicker, I’m sure.”

A spokesperson for Dwr Cymru said: "We realise the diversion route is long and we will do our best to complete the work as soon as we can."

Read the full story in today’s Meirionnydd edition of the Cambrian News