Businesses blame roadworks for reduced footfall
BBCOngoing roadworks to accommodate new house building have had a "massive impact" on footfall, local business owners have said.
Work to reconfigure the junction of Easthampstead Road and Heathlands Road in Wokingham, Berkshire started in mid-November, with a new link road expected to open by late May.
Shop owner Michael Douglas said: "Customers are finding it very difficult to get to us."
Wokingham Borough Council said it had liaised with businesses "to ensure there is regular communication and clarity to help customers reach them despite the disruption".
The work on the South Wokingham Distributor Road is taking place to allow access for new homes being built in the area, with diversions in place.
Easthampstead Road, between Star Lane and Heathlands Road, closed on Monday and will reopen in 2027.
Douglas, owner of Eileen Douglas Tack Shops on Easthampstead Road, said the disruption has been "difficult", adding that his online sales "keeps us afloat".
"The customers are finding it very difficult to get to us and often on a phone call say, 'sorry I can't be bothered', and drive off somewhere else," he said.
He also said the communication from the council has been "fairly poor".
Gail Harples, owner of Enchanting Glass Designs on Heathlands Road, said the disruption has had a "massive" impact and footfall had "disappeared".
"On a Friday when I should be taking six or seven hundred pounds, I took £4 the other day," she told Radio Berkshire.
"We're looking forward to meeting new people, looking forward to reaping some of that reward back.
"We realise it's a bit of a diversion, but please still keep coming to support us as much as you can."
The council said it has "worked closely" with local businesses throughout the project, and would offer advice about the support available to those "experiencing hardship".
It added: "Access to businesses is being maintained throughout the project, but with some diversions required whilst existing roads and junctions are adapted to accommodate the new road.
"We've also shared information regularly with residents to advise on the best way to reach these businesses.
It said it had sought feedback from local businesses over the wording and positioning of signs.
