A major route to and from the city was due to be closed in both directions from today for more than a week to allow emergency sewer repairs.
The work will mean the closure of the A47, Uppingham Road, from the city boundary to the junction of Station Road, Thurnby, from 7.30am for approximately eight days.
During the closure, the alternative route will be Station Road, Scraptoft Lane, Colchester Road and Uppingham Road and vice versa.
County councillor Simon Galton, who represents Thurnby, was out leafleting homes in the Station Road area yesterday warning residents about increased traffic in the residential area.
He said: "Severn Trent has had one lane closed for a few days with temporary traffic lights operating.
"It's unfortunate but the work has just got to be done. The only saving grace is that it's Easter week."
A Severn Trent spokesman said: "Following work to repair a damaged manhole cover on March 18, we have now identified the need to carry out essential repairs to a damaged sewer.
"We will be doing everything we can to make sure we cause minimum disruption."
Grange Lane, which will be access only for residents, will be closed from the junction of Court Road to the junction with the A47. Coles Nursery can be accessed from Main Street.
Traffic lights at the junction with Station Road will be temporarily turned off and road works on Station Road have been suspended for the duration of the emergency work.
