Police have issued a warning to motorists “dangerously” using a pavement to avoid a “frustrating” diversion.

Gallows Hill Lane in Abbots Langley has been part-closed from December 20 to enable Affinity Water to carry out repairs.

Residents had apparently become frustrated with the closure and the “very confusing” diversion signage - leading some to ignore the closure entirely.

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Three Rivers Police said they would “robustly” deal with any drivers caught using the pavement.

The force added: “This is not just breaking the law, but is dangerous for pedestrians using the path.”

Councillor Sara Bedford, who represents Abbots Langley, said she had been pushing to get the work completed in time for Christmas and she has been told the road will be reopened today (December 23).

Watford Observer: Cllr Sara Bedford at the Popes Road junctionCllr Sara Bedford at the Popes Road junction (Image: Cllr Sara Bedford)

She added: “I can understand the frustrations of residents due to the poor signage and length of time it took to carry out the work.

“However, this is no excuse for putting pedestrians or cyclists at risk.”

The councillor said that she has asked for damage to the pavement to be reviewed and is looking into locals’ issues with buses reportedly missing stops due to the closure.