TRADERS are outraged over ongoing roadworks affecting their businesses.

Worcestershire County Council is behind a scheme designed to reduce congestion, improve pedestrian crossing facilities as well as foot ways in St John’s, Worcester, which started at the beginning of June.

READ MORE: Fish out of water for charity walker

READ MORE: £15k cash boost for cinema at Malvern Theatres

Allan Price from St John’s Shoe Repairs in St John’s said: “During the first week it was like a ghost town.

“One day I didn’t even bother to turn the machines on - I sold just one keyring that day.

“The council said I’m not entitled to compensation as no access has been denied to my shopfront but everyone has avoided this side of the road, walking past on the opposite side.

“We’ve had three months when shops were closed - traders need more help but what good will moaning do - we just have to get on with it.”

Ian Narraway, owner of Narraway’s Family Butchers in St John’s, said: “The works are having a big impact, particularly during mid week.

“For this area it’s a lot of work to take place in such a short space of time - we were kicked in the backside by coronavirus and again with this.

“I know it’s all for the better to improve the area in the long run.”

City councillor Richard Udall said: “Over 200 St John’s residents and businesses have expressed their opposition or concern, they deserve to be listened to, instead they have been dismissed and treated with contempt.

“This is my last minute plea for the council to listen to traders and call a halt to the scheme.”

Councillor Alan Amos, cabinet for Highways at Worcestershire County Council said: “The St John’s scheme is designed to reduce congestion by removing pinch-points, updating traffic signals and improving pedestrian crossing facilities, footways and street furniture.

“The first phase of work requires the relocation of utility companies’ infrastructure. This relocation work began at the start of June and will continue through until mid-September.

"Other works associated with the scheme will commence alongside these activities early August as we move onto the first main phase of improvement works.

"A temporary one-way system, along with the associated Covid barriers systems, will be introduced  from next week (w/c June 29) to ensure the safety of contractors, pedestrians and other road users.

"All work will be carried out in accordance with the Highway Sector’s Site Operating Procedures with regard to social distancing and the control of Covid-19.

"We continue to engage with local businesses to ensure they are aware of our plans and will continue to ensure that pedestrian access to residential properties and businesses will be maintained at all times.

"I’m pleased to say that traders have been very understanding of the current situation and the benefits this scheme will bring to the shopping experience in St John’s.”