Hopes are high that a major roads project in the centre of Perth could be completed quicker than the scheduled three weeks.
Mill Street between South Methven Street and Kinnoull Street has been blocked off to allow emergency repairs to the collapsed road.
In advance of the work Councillor Peter Barrett had warned of the impact of the road closure, but stressed the work was necessary and the gains would be worth the temporary pain.
“It is vital that these works are carried out, and completed as soon as possible,” he said.
“There is likely to be serious inconvenience to passengers and disruption to bus journeys.
“People should allow plenty of additional time for travel and for connections when changing buses.”
Work began yesterday and Mr Barrett was pleased that the work had got off to a flying start.
“Works appear to be making swift progress with a substantial amount of the paviers lifted already,” he said at the end of the first day.
“Stagecoach have an inspector on permanent duty at Mill Street to provide advice to passengers and the council’s public transport team are performing regular checks on the area.
“If anyone has any specific concerns or issues regarding the works or the bus services I will be glad to pass them on.”
As well as scheduling the work during the school holidays when traffic is lighter, parking has been suspended in the High Street to help the flow of traffic, which seemed to be helping to ease the situation.
Councillor Willie Wilson said he hoped that people had been forewarned of the project and would be prepared for delays or avoid the area altogether.
“This scheme has all the potential to cause major problems in the city centre,” said Mr Wilson. “However, there has been good advance warning of the changes for bus passengers.
“Inevitably traffic will be disrupted but the work needs to be done some-time.”
He welcomed new that the council and bus operators made staff available to guide those passengers who may be unaware of the changes.
Councillor Archie MacLellan said he was glad the work was happening in the school holidays but said he felt “incessant” roadworks didn’t help the city’s tourism efforts.