A councillor from the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead has slammed contactors who he claims are not working hard enough to complete gas works in the village of Datchet.

Colin Rayner has described the work being carried out by gas company Cadent as ‘disappointing’ as work in the village enters its third week.

He said: “The gas work company should have put more effort into getting the work complete quicker.

“The traffic management could have been a lot better and they also could have put signs out in the surrounding areas warning that there are severe delays.

“There are only three men working on it. They’re supposed to be working weekends and lat nights and they’re not. Residents and businesses are suffering. It’s disappointing to see.”

A spokesperson for Cadent Gas said: “We’re sorry for any disruption caused; however, it’s vital we do this work so local people continue to enjoy safe and reliable gas supplies for decades to come.

“The project is due to take eight weeks. It is on target to be completed on time and once the new pipes are in the ground they will last for at least 80 years.

“The traffic management has been agreed with the local highways authority. We always try to find an option that will keep the public and our staff safe while at the same minimising traffic disruption as far as possible.

“Unfortunately, bringing in additional staff will not speed up the project as we can only work on limited sections of gas pipe at any one time otherwise we risk losing gas supplies to local homes and businesses.

We are working extra hours wherever possible, including some weekends.”