A main road is expected to re-open tomorrow after a burst water main meant part of it collapsed.

The A414 in Danbury has been shut between the junctions where it meets Wells Lane and Mayes Lane since yesterday.

Up to five homes were cut-off from their water supply as a result of the problem.

The recent wintry weather is thought to have contributed to the issue as a sudden rise in temperatures can cause pipes to burst.

A diversion has been set up for drivers while the road is closed but business owners nearby were eager to remind customers they are still open.

Anne Brown, who is the owner of Blossom Hill Flowers, in Main Road, said the situation had been a nightmare for her business.

She said: “There’s nothing we can do about it but it’s happened at such a bad time for us because we’re right on top of Mother’s Day.

“It’s supposed to be one of our busiest times of the year but we had the snow last week which kept people away and now this.”

Diane Rutherford, the owner of Alpine Rooms - a ski shop on the road - said the road closed signs had kept customers away.

She explained: “People see the signs and turn around because they don’t realise the road is only closed for a small part.

“It’s hurt us - it’s been extremely quiet for a time of year which is usually so busy for us but it’s just one of those things you can’t help.

“We had some persistent customers come along to collect their skis and luckily for us the snow last week meant we sold out of sledges.”

A spokesman for Essex and Suffolk Water said: "We were made aware of a burst pipe in Danbury on Saturday evening, which had undermined a section of road along Main Road.

"The pipe has now been repaired, but for safety, the road closure will remain in place until the carriageway has been fully reinstated. We anticipate repairs to be complete by Tuesday.”

"To allow this to happen, the road is closed from Eve’s Corner to the A12 and diversions are in place.

"We would like to apologise to our customers and local businesses for any inconvenience caused and thank them for their patience while we carried out this essential repair.

"We are arranging for some additional signage near to the road closure, to make people aware that local businesses are open as usual while the work is being completed."

Maldon and Burnham Standard:

A spokesperson for Essex County Council said: "The pipe has now been repaired by the water company and their contractor is repairing the road. 

"Our Highways inspector has visited the works over the weekend and again today and will confirm that the road has been repaired to the correct standard. 

"Because the water washed away a large area of material beneath the road, the amount of concrete required to fill in is taking time to cure (set) in the cold weather. 

"We expect the road to reopen either today or tomorrow."