aWith the demolition of Haverfordwest's Commerce House continuing apace, the Top of Town Traders had been looking forward to the removal of scaffolding and the re-opening of Market Street.

But their delight could be short-lived. Transco has warned there will be further disruption as they begin work on a gas main at the corner of Market Street and High Street.

The road has been closed to traffic for over 18 months, after Commerce House was declared unsafe. News that the property was to be demolished and redeveloped came as a relief to businesses which had been hit by the closure.

But a letter from Transco says that work will start at the bottom of Market Street on May 31st and is scheduled to last seven weeks.

"Clearly it is impossible to carry out this essential work without some disruption and I apologise for any inconvenience caused," states Network operations manager Dave Griffiths.

Robin Sheldrake, Town Traders Association chairman, said: "Members will be delighted when trading is able to return to normal after the prolonged closure of Market Street. "It is regretful that the uncertainty over Commerce House has prevailed for so long. "During the closure, vehicle access has been particularly difficult for large delivery vehicles and it is a testament to the patience of delivery services that these have somehow been maintained.

"Nor is it the end of the affair," he added. "Early warnings are coming through that a programme of works to the town's gas main at the junction of High Street will begin once Commerce House scaffolding is removed.

"Traders look forward to the true conclusion of their difficulties."

PICTURE: Western Telegraph (WTNO1088H05).