TRADERS in Watchet have criticised the timing of drainage repairs which could result in the closure of one of the key routes into the town for up to three weeks. Somerset Highways began work in West Street and Cleeve Hill on Tuesday. And local businesses say the road closure, which could be in place until June 2, is likely to hit the summer season trade as it gets underway. John Richards, chairman of WACET, which represents local businesses, said he had negotiated with highways chiefs to ensure the road would be reopened over the end of May bank holiday weekend - even if the work was not completed. "That took a lot of emails back and forwards to agree but what is really annoying is that we were given an assurance previously that we would be consulted before it was decided when any work would be carried out," he said. "And the first we knew about it was when the official notice came out. "I appreciate this work has to be done but the timing of it could have been better. "Highways should have taken into consideration that the season is just getting underway and this will undoubtedly have an impact on business and the number of visitors coming to the town. "I am pleased that we have reached an agreement about it being open over the bank holiday break but I still think the highways department has taken a cavalier attitude to this." The work will affect a stretch of road ten metres west of the junction with Saxon Close to 110 metres east of the junction with Saxon Ridge - 180 metres in total. Watchet mayor Cllr Loretta Whetlor also criticised the lack of consultation over the closure. "It would have been better if highways could have liaised with the town council and traders before deciding to carry out this work now," she said. "We know from past experience that this is definitely going to cause problems." A spokesman for Somerset County Council told the Free Press: "This narrow road needs to be fully closed so we can clear and improve blocked drains and also prepare the highway for surface dressing later in the year. "Although the work is booked in for three weeks, we are hopeful it will be completed before the bank holiday weekend. "If the work is not complete, the road will be fully reopened before the bank holiday - that is always our policy to avoid inconveniencing motorists, residents and businesses any more than is necessary."