A damaged road in Chester already shut for four weeks still has no definite date for reopening.
Sandy Lane in Great Boughton has been closed because of a ‘very dangerous situation’ since March 31.
Repairs were needed after a developer damaged the road, footpath and sewer while digging on a site just off the street.
The latest estimate for the closure to come to an end is ‘mid-to-late May’.
Cabinet member for economic development and infrastructure councillor Brian Clarke said: “The council is dealing with a very dangerous situation due to the stability and integrity of Sandy Lane being put at risk by a developer excavating adjacent to Sandy Lane.
“Their operations have caused the road to start to subside and Sandy Lane is closed to protect the public.”
A ‘Business open as usual’ sign has been put at the top of the street to help traders.
Cllr Clarke said: “There is a water pump on the road which by-passes the damaged sewer and allows foul to still flow from properties in the area.
“Other utilities will need to carry out possible repairs to their equipment caused by the subsidence on the highway.
“The last phase of the works before the road can be opened will be for the developer to repair the road and footpath.
“We would hope that the road is safe to re-open at the earliest mid to late May however this is out of our control and may take longer.”
Traffic on Sandy Lane is being diverted along Gorse Way, Caldy Valley Road and A5115 Christleton Road.
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A Welsh Water spokesman said: “Following damage to our sewerage pipe on Sandy Lane caused by a third party contractor, we currently have temporary pumps on site which are ensuring that the network is able to continue to operate.
“The pumps will ensure that there is no risk of local flooding or pollution to the environment in this area and maintain customers’ sewerage services.
“We currently have a team on site assessing the damage and planning the repair work.
“We would like to assure customers that we are doing all we can to repair the damage as quickly as we can and would like to thank customers for bearing with us while the work is completed.”
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