Roadworks on a rural road in Denby Dale will go on for up to three weeks adding to the agony for a pub that’s become virtually cut off from passing motorists.

The A635 Barnsley Road, close to The Dunkirk Inn has been closed for six weeks to allow resurfacing, repairing a drystone wall and improving drainage.

But now Barnsley Council, which is responsible for its maintenance, has identified further works which need to be carried out at the same time, pushing the completion date back by up to three weeks.

Dunkirk Landlord Paul Clark said: “I heard people locally saying the roadworks weren’t going to be finished on time so I phoned Barnsley Council and have since been told it will be extended for at least a further two weeks and could be a third week taking it to September 14th at the latest .

“We had hoped passing trade would pick up in time for the Bank Holiday as we are on the route to Cannon Hall Farm and Maize Maze in Barnsley, but that won’t happen now.”

As previously reported, Barnsley Road is reduced to access only about a mile before the pub if you are coming from the Huddersfield side. But is has been completely shut off at the other end at roughly the Kirklees and Barnsley border.

Paul added: “We understand that the works have to be done and there is never a good time to do them.

“Diversions are in place but me and my staff have been out giving directions to people trying to get to Cannon Hall. The roadworks has had a massive affect on our trade.

“I would say based on footfall this time last year and this year for the summer period its down about 25%.”

Paul also claims the roadworks signs haven’t been updated to warn motorists the roadworks are being extended and he wasnt’ even notified by the council that the project had been extended.

A council spokesperson said: “The works to a drystone wall which retains the A635 have not been delayed.

“Highways Officers have taken advantage of the road being closed and identified further work being required, including the need for repairs to other sections of the highway retaining walls and new road surfacing.

“This part of the A635 is narrow which means it is not possible to carry out the works while keeping the road open.

“We would emphasise that these are essential safety works with other work being included to take advantage of the road closure.”

The council confirmed that they contacted Mr Clark prior to commencing and did not recontact him due to the public house being located two kilometres away from the location of actual works.”