A COUNCIL has spent £13,000 on repairing a diversion route before a major improvement scheme starts.

Engineers carried out the work on St Thomas's Road, Tean, to enable the carriageway to cope with the increased volume of traffic when work starts next Monday.

Temporary bus stops will also be erected during the £500,000 scheme.

Motorists have been warned to expect major disruption.

County councillor Mike Maryon, member for highways, said: "The investment in St Thomas's Road is very welcome. We strongly believe the scheme reflects the wishes of the vast majority of villagers."

Traders have opposed plans to move a pedestrian crossing in the High Street as part of the project amid fears parking spaces will be lost.

Campaigners were promised further talks after staging a demonstration last week.