A ROAD in the centre of Tavistock could be closed for up to seven days for ‘essential infrastructure’ works but assurances have been made that it will reopen in time for Dickensian Evening.

A letter was sent to residents and businesses in West Street recently, informing them of a temporary closure of the road from December 4 to 10 in order for Kier to undertake essential water infrastructure works.

In the letter, a spokesperson for Kier said: ‘These works will take place outside 74 West Street and will last for seven days. All efforts will be made to maintain access to properties within the area of the closure and minimise disruption.

‘However, as you may experience some delays, it may be advisable to avoid the area of work for the duration of the closure.

‘Appropriate diversionary routes will be signposted for the duration of the works.’

However, following concerns that the closure would affect the town’s annual Dickensian Evening on December 7 and affect trade for the West Street businesses, organisers of the event Tavistock BID wrote to Kier to ask for the date of the works to be changed.

BID manager Janna Sanders said: ‘Given the potential impact on both Dickensian Evening and businesses on West Street in the lead up to Christmas, BID contacted Kier on learning of the closure to request a postponement of the works.

‘Kier were unable to change the date due to the essential nature of the work but gave assurances that it would only take a maximum of two days and would be finished before Dickensian Evening.’