Businesses affected by ongoing gas and water works across Merton are being told they may be eligible for compensation.

The council says last weekend saw “an unprecedented strain” on the road network in Mitcham as a result of emergency works.

Both closures, one on Church Road and the other on Eastfields Road, were caused by burst water pipes although gas works are ongoing.

The council says when works are emergency, utilities companies are allowed to enforce closures without notice, although this is unusual.