Furious residents have slammed Severn Trent amid chaos involving road closures, congestion and a lack of communication.

In a hastily arranged residents meeting locals said the situation wasn't good enough and demanded action.

Currently Severn Trent is undertaking a £25 million project to replace old water pipes. Much of the work is currently focused on Birches Head, however, 24 miles of water mains will be replaced across areas including Hanley, Burslem and Sneyd Green by early 2027, the company said.

Those living in Birches Head have raised concerns due to the non-stop congestion on Birches Head Road, Woodward Street and Barthomley Road, following the closure of Kelvin Avenue.

One resident reported having to park 15 minutes away from his house due to the congestion and road closures.

This comes as Severn Trent cancelled two planned community drop-in sessions arranged on the 22nd and the 29th. The company has since rescheduled the session for Tuesday 3 February from 3pm to 6.30pm at the Bridge Centre, Birches Head Road. 

Councillor Laura Carter is now organising a further residents meeting. She has invited various stakeholders, including Severn Trent, to speak directly to residents about the ongoing issues in the area.

This meeting is set to take place on Thursday 29 January from 6.30pm at St Matthew's Church on Birches Head Road.

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She said: "I've called this meeting with Severn Trent because residents of both Sneyd Green and Birches Head are frustrated, anxious and tired of feeling ignored. Tensions are understandably high, and people deserve clear answers, accountability, and reassurance that their concerns are being taken seriously."

The water company says it is taking steps to minimise disruption.

A Severn Trent spokesperson said "We want to reassure residents that we are listening, working closely with local partners, and will continue to keep the community updated as this vital work progresses.

"The short-term disruption will bring long-term benefits, including fewer bursts and leaks, and a stronger, more resilient network supplying homes, schools, hospitals and care homes across the city.

"We understand that these works can be disruptive, and we know how frustrating the current road closures and delays are for local people, and for this we are sorry.

"This is a £25 million long-term investment in Stoke, replacing old pipes with modern materials that will strengthen the network and deliver real benefits for customers for decades to come."