TRAFFIC misery for commuters and locals looks likely to last for at least another month as roadworks near Ogbourne St Andrew move along the A346.

Drivers have highlighted massive tailbacks at busy points during the week and vent their annoyances at delays of up to an hour to get through the traffic lights.

Thames Water is replacing a water main, but has been accused of allowing the delays to extend for weeks, because the roadworks are not running 24 hours a day to get them down as fast as possible.

Driver Chris Randall said: “My principal frustration is the level of priority that has been assigned to what is a major trunk road. I rarely see active workers outside of the 9am-5pm window.”

However, Jenny Clarke, who lives on the Main Street, praised the work of Thames Water and said: “It has been noisy for residents because they set up the metal plates for cars to drive over.

“But the workers have been there all day every day and it is necessary work. I think it is worse for the drivers sat in the traffic but having lived through it all the workers were always very approachable.”

Works to the slip road on the M4 have caused further delays to drivers. Locals have asked drivers not to block side roads off the A346, after being unable to reach their homes due to tailbacks.

Shelly Dyke, of Crawlings Piece, said: “I appreciate the work has to be done.

“It would have been good if they could have put some signs up for us so the drivers are aware to keep it clear. Some drivers are so rude.”

Thames Water said that the works were being done six days a week and apologised for disruption caused.

A spokesman for Thames Water said: “Our work on Main Road is on course to be completed by February 16.

“We’re sorry for any ongoing disruption, but it’s really important we upgrade our water pipes to reduce the risk of leaks, bursts and interruptions to water supplies and make our infrastructure fit for the future.”

The work is due to last until February 9.