'My greengrocery couldn't survive M6 road closures'
SuppliedA business owner has welcomed a review of repairs to ageing motorway bridges on the M6, but said the status quo would mean "game over" for his greengrocery.
National Highways is reviewing its approach to upgrades at junction 38 through the Lune Gorge, after public uproar over the impact of a four-year partial closure on local businesses and "excessive traffic" concerns.
Chris Casey, owner of Eden Valley Produce in Kirkby Stephen, said the review was "good news" but if nothing changed he "couldn't sustain a 30% drop in business".
A spokesperson for National Highways said: "Having engaged and listened to feedback, we will undertake a full review of how this important project will be delivered."
The M6 is Cumbria's only motorway connecting the county to the south, and work was due to begin in 2027 on seven road bridges and one overhead bridge.
Earlier this year, people living and working around Kirkby Stephen and Tebay handed a petition to Downing Street asking for the plans to be reconsidered.
Casey said it was "great to hear that National Highways are willing to engage more with the community" and welcomed news of a public consultation that will follow the review.
But he added: "It doesn't guarantee we're going to get the result we want - it's no time to take the foot off the accelerator.
"The concern is still there until they recognise the level of concern and come up with an appropriate alternative plan.
"We're all still very mindful of the fact that it will have a major economical impact on us in the area if they don't alter course."
'Positive news'
Casey said the period between spring and autumn was the shop's busiest time and would usually make up for losses over the winter period.
He said they "couldn't survive" a significant drop in business, it was "plain and simple".
Sarah Dunning, the chair of Westmorland Family which owns Tebay Services and Junction 38 Truck Stop, said the review marked an important reset in relationships and has reiterated her commitment to keeping Junction 38 fully open during the project.
Liberal Democrat MP for Westmorland and Lonsdale Tim Farron said campaigners needed to remain "engaged".
He said while it was "positive news" it was possible at the end of the review the closures could still be a "final option".
The spokesperson for National Highways added: "We recognise the importance of working with local communities and businesses to explore opportunities that could help reduce disruption while construction work takes place."
