Highway chiefs say they are pulling out all the stops to finish the Foxdale roadworks scheme two weeks ahead of schedule.

Following a seven-week delay to the original start date last autumn, the major reconstruction project was due to finish in mid-August.

With the main road through the village closed to through traffic, it’s caused months of disruption for residents, business owners and motorists.

Highway chiefs hope that extended 10 hour working days, weekend shifts and extra manpower will help reduce the time taken to finish, with a revised target date for completion now being Wednesday August 2.

The road was reopened temporarily during TT but closed again at 10am yesterday (Monday) for the final phase to begin.

Work now focuses on the section from the filling station to Mines Road.

This last phase of excavation and reconstruction will be challenging as there are water, gas, electric and telecoms pipes and cables serving properties on both sides of the road.

Work includes installing the storm water drainage system, manholes, road gullies and connections; completing the water main, telecom ducting and gas main, including service connections and reconstructing about 700 square metres of carriageway.

The footway on the Mines Road side of the carriageway will be reconstructed and overhead electricity and telecom supplies placed underground. While this work takes place, the footway on the opposite side of the road will remain open for pedestrians.

The footway on the Baltic Inn side of the road will then also be reconstructed. Pedestrian access will be provided via the new footway on other side of the road.

All ironwork will be raised and the carriageway resurfaced. Finally, road markings will painted and signs erected.

Access to properties, including the filling station and pub, will be maintained during the work.

Infrastructure Minister Ray Harmer MHK said: ’Residents, business owners and road users have been extremely patient and I am pleased to say that the finishing line is now in sight. With 10-hour working days, Saturday shifts and up to 14 members of staff on site at certain times, we are pulling out all the stops to accelerate the final phase of the scheme.’

He added: ’The department is also continuing to work in partnership with the utility providers to ensure good progress. The aim is to finish the scheme by August 2, which is more than two weeks ahead of our previous schedule.’