A DISTRICT councillor says there was extensive consultation with the public before the start of the major roadworks in Banwell. Parts of West Street, Castle Hill, High Street and the entire length of Dark Lane in Banwell are closed for drainage improvemen

A DISTRICT councillor says there was extensive consultation with the public before the start of the major roadworks in Banwell.Parts of West Street, Castle Hill, High Street and the entire length of Dark Lane in Banwell are closed for drainage improvements.Wessex Water is also carrying out sewer work during the closure and repairs are being carried out on Knightcott Bridge.Banwell is usually busy with cars and lorries and a diversion has been put in place via Congresbury and Churchill while the work is carried out.North Somerset councillor Ann Harley said: "People have complained about the amount of traffic. A diversion route has been put in place and we advise people to use it. But if people choose to ignore it, there is nothing we can do. It can't be monitored 24 hours a day."This work needed to be done. The drainage system is very old and when it was checked people couldn't tell where the drains went. It needs replacing."Water would run down from Castle Hill and flood areas around the post office and the butcher's. Because of health and safety the only way the work could be done was to close the road."There was a lot of consultation with local businesses and residents before the work started."Parish council clerk Jo Duffy said: "We spoke to residents and businesses on West Street which would be affected by the work. The work has been publicised in the parish magazine as well as on the parish noticeboard. The majority of people supported the work and accepted it needed to be done. Some were even excited the road would be closing for the period of time.