IMPROVEMENTS works to Portishead High Street are expected to be completed ahead of schedule.

Retailers whose businesses have been hit hard by the closure of the town centre street say they are jubilant after hearing the news.

High Street closed on January 10 for road and drain repairs along with the introduction of additional traffic calming measures. It was due to reopen on February 11 but highways officers have said that, weather permitting, the work should be completed on February 7.

The High Street has been closed from the Brampton Road junction, through the main shopping area to Ferndale Road, although taxis and buses are being allowed to turn left in to High Street from Combe Road, providing access to Wyndham Way and Cabstand.

Portishead Chamber of Commerce president, Tony Walmsley, said: “The chamber has urged residents to continue to support the local retail outlets throughout the road closure and everyone is delighted that the High Street will re-open a week earlier than expected.”