Drivers are usually pleased to see dangerous potholes filled in, but those in Apsley’s Manor Estate were boggled when workmen started repairs just days before a resurfacing project was due to begin.
Contractors descended on King Edward Street, the main vein into the estate, on Monday to patch up the potholes.
But neighbours had been given advance warning that works to resurface the street were to take place this weekend. Elizabeth Parker, who lives nearby, said: “The potholes could have been repaired months ago, not five days before they were to resurface it anyway. It is a complete waste of time and money.”
Gemma McKelvey of Herts County Council said: “Workmen from another contractor were not supposed to be on site on Monday and we apologise for any inconvenience. As soon as the error was noticed the work was stopped.
“The council will not be charged for this so there will be no cost to the council or taxpayers.”
King Edward Street will be subject to closures over the weekend as the works take place from 8am to 5.30pm on Saturday and 9am to 5.30pm on Sunday.