It is investigating the way staff at the Civic Centre next to the road have been affected by the ongoing project.

It wants its own rates to be lowered and said nearby firms should apply for rebates as well.

Staff have been asked to report problems caused by noise, dust or vibration, or disruption caused by traffic problems for staff or visitors.

The council said in a statement: "Any business affected by the roadworks on the A500 can appeal to the Valuation Office, Blackburn House, Hanley, against the rateable value on their business premises.

"The city council is currently in the process of doing this in respect of its offices which run alongside the A500."

The A500 Pathfinder project is being run by the Highways Agency. The �40m project started in 2004 and was supposed be completed later this year but has been running behind schedule.