MOTORISTS can expect another summer of traffic chaos with the news that temporary lights are to be installed for two months in the centre of Dursley.

Fears have been raised that the traffic and delays could cause misery for traders again with shoppers turned away from Dursley by the queues when temporary traffic lights are set up on Monday.

It follows months of roadworks hell when Sainsbury’s was being built, which some business owners claimed nearly killed off trade.

There have since been several smaller roadwork delays in the centre of Dursley.

As Mike Stayte, of major local employer John Stayte Services, said: "I am sure other traders will agree that Dursley has suffered more roadworks in the past two years than any other comparable Gloucestershire town."

He said he was expecting the town to be ‘gridlocked’ for most of June and July.

Richard Mace, manager of Besley Hill Estate Agents, which recently moved into new offices at the junction of May Lane, said the roadworks were likely to cause his staff delays in getting to house viewings.

"I expect it will put an extra 20 minutes on every job we go to, which is a real nuisance," said Mr Mace.

"A lot of our business is done on the phone and internet, but I feel for the shop owners in the town, who could lose out.

"This is exactly not what they need right now, for shoppers to be turned away from Dursley. I hope the council gives due consideration to how the traffic lights are managed to avoid long queues."

Gloucestershire County Council has confirmed it will be installing temporary traffic lights on Kingshill Road near Dursley Garage where work will be taking place to repair the retaining wall from Monday, June 13. The lights at the May Lane junction will be turned off and a temporary road layout put in place. It is estimated the work will take seven weeks to complete.

The footpath opposite, near Cedar Drive, will also be closed for the duration of the works.

Liz Kirkham, maintenance support manager at Gloucestershire Highways, said: "We're carrying out essential safety work on the retaining wall as it is in a poor condition and could pose a danger to the public if not repaired.

"Parts of the road will need to close to protect the staff on site and pedestrians, while this work is being carried out.

"However, to minimise the disruption to traffic the road will still be in use under temporary traffic lights. We will be monitoring how this is working and if needed, we will operate the lights manually to ensure traffic moves easier.

"Access to businesses will be maintained at all times and if anyone has any problems they should call 08000 514 514."