MONTHS of frustration for traders and residents in Grosmont, near Abergavenny, will come to an end when the main road into the village re-opens next week.

Three landslips closed part of the B4347, between Grosmont and Norton, five months ago causing disruption.

Residents and traders told the Argus in March that it was deterring tourists from visiting what is described as the ‘most beautiful village in Britain.’

Traders said that following the winter they had hoped trade would pick up but that they were not getting passing trade because a 200-stretch section was closed.

They also criticised Monmouthshire council for not responding and completing the repairs in time for the tourist season.

Monmouthshire council’s head of operations, Roger Hoggins, said the landslips were extensive and warned it could take several weeks.

Richard Brierly, 60, who runs the village Post Office, said it is good news for the village.

“The sooner it is finished the better,” he said.

“It has caused a nuisance for residents, traders and tourists and has put people off coming through the village,” he added.

Residents, Tony and Lynne Jellard said they were cut off from their horses and had to make a 26-mile detour round the Graig Mountain to travel to their horses just over a mile away.

Steve Baldwin, the council’s project engineer, said the road is due to re-open by July 4.

He said: “Works to stabilise two embankments and an associated retaining wall had been completed previously.

“The wall supporting the carriageway was also affected and will remain under traffic light control until repair can be carried out.”