By A159 roadworks the ‘nail in the coffin’ for struggling shops
Motorists using the A159 to travel between Scunthorpe and Gainsborough are facing a length 13-mile diversion during a seven week road closure.
Although Lincolnshire County Council say the works are essential, local business owners are worried that the added inconvenience could be the ‘nail in the coffin’ for already struggling shops.
There are also concerns over how much shopping habits have already changed due to the ongoing pandemic, and how this will effect high street footfall.
Works are scheduled to begin next Monday and last until at least the end of November or early December, with diversions causing delays of up to 15 or 20 minutes.
They include a series of resurfacing and carriageway works.
Speaking to BBC Radio Lincolnshire’s Harry Parkhill, Ellie Dowell, Manager of Browns Department Store at Marshall’s Yard said:
“This has the potential to be really devastating, especially at this time of year when a lot of businesses rely on making at least 70% of their annual revenue.
“It’s just going to put people off visiting stores given that it’s already difficult due to the unprecedented year we’ve had so far.
“Anything thats going to create an extra obstacle will make people revisit their shopping habits, and in turn shop online or in other areas.”
According to Lincolnshire County Council, they have done all they can to reduce disruption, but the repairs have been on the cards for years, have been delayed on multiple occasions, and are essential for road safety.
Councillor Clio Perraton-Williams, said:
“As part of these works, we’ll be resurfacing a 4km stretch of the A159 between Laughton and Brigg Road. This is to replace road surface that is nearing the end of its serviceable life.
“We’ll be doing everything we can to minimise disruption throughout the seven-week project, including maintaining access for residents, emergency services and buses.
“Once this project is finished, everyone traveling in and around the area should expect smoother and safer journeys.”
But local businesses owners have said this simply is not good enough.
“This is in direct conflict with government advice, which is encouraging people to shopping locally, people being forced to go further afield, and it’s a huge blow to local trade,” added Ms Dowell.
“Its yet another thing people now have to consider before going shopping, and it’s destroying confidence.
“If works have already been delayed, why could they not wait until January?
“If businesses had the opportunity to discuss this with the council, the outcome might have been different. Realistically, the roadworks could have waited.”
