TRAFFIC has already begun to build up following the closure of a major route from Halesowen towards the M5.

Part of the A456 Manor Way through Halesowen will remain closed from today (Monday September 13) to Friday September 17 - with frustrated motorists warning of long delays.

The eastbound section of the A456 at Manor Way between Grange Road and Cloister Drive - heading towards Birmingham and Junction 3 of the M5 is shut all week as work on the new Sandvik HQ continues.

The closure is only on the side eastbound side of the A456 dual carriageway which heads into Birmingham and is to allow a new sewer connection to be installed.

The move is likely to cause havoc for motorists as the road connects from Worcestershire to the M5 motorway.

There have been roadworks in the area for months as Swedish engineering firm Sandvik, which has its HQ on the road, builds a new smaller base.

Traffic monitoring service Inrix is already reporting delays in the area, saying: "Slow traffic on A456 Manor Way in both directions around A459 Grange Road (Halesowen turn). In the roadworks area."

In a further blow for motorsists there are still roadworks on Mucklow Hill, which is on the diversion route towards the M5, while Western Power Distribution carries out work until Wednesday (September 15).

The closure of the road led to many people asking why the major road couldn't have been closed during the school holidays.

People commented on the Halesowen News website. One said: "So let's close off a busy road when all the schools and colleges are back.... who gets paid to work this out!?"

Another said: "This is a total disgrace, why not close the road before the schools go back?"

The project is being managed by developer Stoford Developments for Swedish firm Sandvik, with contractor Benniman Construction carrying out the work.

The diversion is via Grange Road, Vine Lane, Bromsgrove Road, Bromsgrove Street, Mucklow Hill, Kent Road, Manor Lane, and Manor Way.