Rat running concerns have been raised after 82 days of roadworks kicked off, with reports of drivers getting lost as they tried to follow a five-mile diversion.
The essential drainage works started in Thorpe St Andrew on Monday and will continue until March 31, and are already causing rush hour congestion nearby.
The works affect Plumstead Road East from its junction with South Hill Road for 250m westwards and South Hill Road from its junction with Plumstead Road East for 10m southwards with lengthy diversions around them.
Paul Oxborrow lives in Plumstead Road East and runs Thorpe Plant Centre, which is opposite the South Hill Road junction.
"It's already like a ghost town," he said. "People aren't going the long way around to come here or anywhere else.
"January is always quiet, but that's why cash flow is important.
"It's hard to say how much it's affected us but needless to say I'm not expecting us to be very busy any time soon.
"The diversion routes are so convoluted.
"One customer came to us from the city via the NDR [using Salhouse Road] and it took him an hour.
"They're awkward and time-consuming."
Tracey Cooper lives in Hopton Close off Dussindale Drive and helps to run the Dussindale Community Page on Facebook.
She said there has been a noticeable increase in the number of vehicles weaving their way through the estate.
"There is definitely increased traffic through Dussindale," she said.
"It's inconvenient, particularly for businesses, but I haven't heard any complaints - yet.
"People aren't abusing Dussindale as a rat run as yet because it's a big estate with six roundabouts.
"It doesn't necessarily make an easy rat run.
"It would be quicker for people to follow the diversions and go out on the NDR.
"But there is definitely more traffic on the roads."
Conservative district councillor for Thorpe St Andrew, Ian Mackie, added: "The alternative routes have been signposted however people will always try their own routes which can put added pressure on residential streets.
"I would encourage people to use the official diversions and thank them for their patience."
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