Roadworks are always a cause of frustration for residents and motorists alike, particularly when it is not known how long they will last for.

And that is by no means a recent issue as this week’s picture from the Watford Museum archive shows.

The museum’s volunteer archivist Christine Orchard said: “Roadworks always cause disruption and traffic delays especially when roads are closed completely.

Watford Observer: The sign on the lamp postThe sign on the lamp post (Image: Watford Museum)

“Today, we usually know the duration of the works and diversions are set up. It would appear however that any road user wishing to use Market Street, in this mid 1950's photo, could only go by the state of the reconstruction works.

Watford Observer: Less disruptive works in the High Street from an earlier period. Image: Bobb Nunn Collection / Watford MuseumLess disruptive works in the High Street from an earlier period. Image: Bobb Nunn Collection / Watford Museum (Image: Bobb Nunn Collection / Watford Museum)

“No clues were given on the sign on a lamp post which stated that the road would be closed to through traffic ‘from 31st July, until further notice’!”

Watford Museum is open Thursday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm.