Fordwich's Only Road Closed Six Months for Mayor's House Repairs

Fordwich, Britain's smallest town, is set to close its only road for six months to facilitate essential repairs on Mayor Barney Riggs' Grade II-listed Manor House, a £1 million property. This closure, taking place from April to September, will split the town in two, forcing approximately 6,000 daily drivers onto the already congested A28 Sturry Road and leaving residents with detours of up to seven miles. Mayor Riggs states the repairs are necessary due to crumbling lime and wattle plaster panels that pose a public safety risk. Local residents have expressed their frustration, deeming the lengthy closure 'absurd' and a significant inconvenience for accessing everyday services. Retired teachers Gerry and Chris Frisby, among others, have voiced their discontent, highlighting the challenges of navigating around the town during this period. The mayor's insistence on the necessity of the repairs has not quelled community concerns about the disruption.