A major road in Watford that closed for roadworks will reopen a week ahead of schedule.

Vicarage Road has been shut both ways near Watford FC’s stadium due to sewer repairs being carried out by Thames Water.

It was due to stay closed until July 29 but West Watford Labour county councillor Nigel Bell has been told the road will reopen later today (Thursday July 21).

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Watford Observer: Drivers have often been spotted turning around in Vicarage Road over the last couple of weeks because of the closure. Credit: WatfordLondonDrivers have often been spotted turning around in Vicarage Road over the last couple of weeks because of the closure. Credit: WatfordLondon

The closure has caused congestion along other nearby routes and infuriated residents who live off Vicarage Road.

People living in Oxford Street said motorists, including bus and lorry drivers, were using their road as a way of avoiding the closure and feared a “serious accident” would happen.

Read more: Residents 'angry and fed up' over Vicarage Road closure

Watford Observer: A lorry heading into Oxford Street A lorry heading into Oxford Street

Residents called for ‘residents only’ signs to be temporarily installed by Oxford Street – and according to Cllr Bell, they were today.

But he says this came two weeks late and was then informed this morning that Vicarage Road will reopen later today following discussions between the council and Thames Water, with a Hertfordshire County Council officer appreciating the “inconvenience” this work has caused.

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