GAS mains replacement work which has seen Watchet all but cut off by road from the outside world was due to ease from midnight on Wednesday (October 21).

Wales and West Utilities (WWU) closed Brendon Road on October 5 and was not expected to finish that phase of the project until November 13.

But, the company doubled up its workforce and brought in weekend working and said it would be able to reopen the road three weeks earlier than anticipated.

It said work would then move to South Road from Thursday.

Watchet Town Council said it was continuing to collaborate with the utilities firm and Somerset Council to minimise disruption to residents, businesses, and visitors during the ongoing roadworks.

A spokesperson said: “This means access to Watchet town centre via the railway bridge will be restored through Brendon Road, and the diversion will be amended accordingly.

“Access for residents to all areas of the new closure will be constantly maintained.

“Updated bus timetables are expected shortly from Somerset Council and First Bus.

“We will share this information as soon as it becomes available.

“The temporary shuttle bus service will continue to run as scheduled until we have confirmation that the 28 bus route is fully reinstated.

“Thank you to everybody for your continued patience and understanding while these essential works are carried out.”

The news came as small business owners in Watchet gathered for a photocall to highlight the fact the town was still open and to say thank you o people who had made the effort to support them.

A spokesperson said: “We have chatted with so many of you who told us how you have been determined to get to us, that you will take that little bit of a longer route just to support us.

“It really means everything.”