HERE is the sight of a "nightmare traffic" jam in South Norwood that is becoming all too familiar in the area.

Cars were left crawling along Portland Road on Wednesday morning as roadworks continue to cause misery for drivers.

Last week, we explained how watermains are being replaced in South Norwood high street, while gasworks are taking place at the junction of Davidson Road and Tennison Road.

And traffic tailbacks have been made worse by the ten-day closure from Monday of the Davidson Road and Tennison Road junction.

Traders on Portland Road have described the gridlock as a nightmare, hitting trade at a vulnerable time in the year.

Andrew Lloyd, of Portland Pet Shop, said: "It's discouraging people who may have taken the time to stop and buy something.

"January is traditionally a very quiet time anyway and this certainly doesn't help.

Mr Lloyd added: "I had to go from here to Thornton Heath High street yesterday (Tuesday) and it took me an hour.

"So coming back I had to go in a loop and came in from West Croydon.

Caroline Zietz, of Gem Family Butchers, added: "On Monday it barely moved all day.

"They've closed Tennison Road junction and that has made it worse.

"I cannot understand why they can't finish one set of roadworks before they start another."

Mrs Zietz added: "It hits trade as well. People just want to get from A to B, they get fed up with sitting there waiting."

The roadworks are set to continue for approximately four months.

Croydon Council has defended both sets of roadworks taking place at the same time, saying both are essential for maintaining the infrastructure and reducing the risk of either water or gas escape.