Traders in Monifieth High Street have been left frustrated after it was closed without warning.
Emergency Scottish Water works are expected to block the road from Reform Street to Tay Street for five days and many affected business owners are upset that they did not receive notice, causing problems for deliveries and lost trade.
Patric Lochi, of newly opened Italian restaurant Amore Mio, said Monday was the first day since he opened that the restaurant has been quiet and he expects the business to take a financial hit.
He said: “I have already told two workers not to come in. I had a delivery of a palette of wine straight from Italy but it couldn’t get through.”
Amanda King, of Ellen King Flowers, said the works were causing “havoc”.
She said: “We’ve had no notice at all. It is really quite annoying. It’s a piece of nonsense. We are losing footfall but customers also come in cars.”
Steve Long, of Longs Carpets and Flooring, said he had to carry heavy rolls of carpet along the street because his delivery driver could not get access.
He said: “This has been a nightmare for deliveries. Footfall has also been down as people who come in always want to take away samples but if they can’t park near the shop they don’t bother.”
Jackie Wilson, of Ashludie Kitchens Ltd, added: “I don’t know why the whole road is shut. We rely on passing trade that’s why we are on the High Street.
“It is definitely quieter as people can’t park anywhere.”
A spokeswoman for Scottish Water said: “Scottish Water will be carrying out essential repair work to the deterioration of a manhole caused by ageing infrastructure.
“We would like to thank the public for their patience and understanding while this important repair work is carried out and apologise for any inconvenience caused.”
A spokeswoman for Angus Council said it was informed of the need for work at the end of last week leaving no time to notify businesses and as the manhole is in the middle of the road the entire road has to be closed for safety reasons.
Diversion routes are affecting Stagecoach services 73, 73A, 73B, 78, 78A, 79, 79A are affected and bus stops on the High Street at Tesco, Reform Street and the Episcopal Church are not being served.