Drivers are being forced to drive almost the equivalent length of the Channel Tunnel to bypass “ridiculous” roadworks in Royal Wootton Bassett.
The Wiltshire town’s high street is due to be closed for five days for resurfacing works, but motorists who follow official diversion signs will end up following a 30-mile detour.
Highways engineers closed the stretch of road completely to carry out the works, rather than shutting one side at a time.
But residents and local businesses have slammed the proposals, saying businesses will lose trade.
Chris Wannell, who has lived in the town for 47 years, said the plans were “ridiculous” and lacked common sense.
He told The Times: “It will take cars 30 to 40 minutes extra if they follow the diversion signs and for lorries, it will add the best part of an hour.
“It is typical of councils that some read these guidance notes and take them to the absolute furthest limit and don’t use common sense.”
Town councillor Paul Heaphy admitted the diversion route was “a bit overkill”, but added residents would see the funny side of the proposed route.
He added: “There will be a percentage of non-local residents who will not know local roads and will be taken way out of their way.
“The road needs improving so that’s a good thing, but it is stunning that this is the shortest route they could come up with.
“My first reaction when I heard the plans was “Why have they done that?” It doesn’t seem logicial.”
The 300-metre long stretch of road is due to be closed from 7pm to midnight for five days from February 8.
Philip Whitehead, Wiltshire Council’s cabinet member for highways, said: “We have to divert vehicles onto roads that are suitable for them, and in this situation the road is a tactical diversion route for the M4 should Highways England need to close it in an emergency.
“Consequently diversions often appear very long because we have to cater for HGVs. Local people will find their own way using local routes that they know.
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“If we use local routes for the signed diversion, all of the HGVs will end up on inappropriate roads which could cause chaos and damage.”
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