Traders fear ruin during road closure
TRADERS in Manchester Road fear that they could be forced out of business now that the street has closed for more than two weeks.
Sefton Council is carrying out major roadworks to improve pedestrian safety on the street and has acted on its plans to close a large stretch of the road.
The council issued a notice saying it planned to close a stretch of Manchester Road and Roe Lane between May 2 and 17, with a diversion via Queens Road, Park Crescent and Park Avenue.
The council also stated that it informed residents and traders of the plans in February, and that it would be providing updates nearer the time.
A spokesman said: “Letters were sent out in February to residents and local businesses on Manchester Road outlining the works which included traffic signal improvements, new footways, a bus stop upgrade and road resurfacing.
“Further correspondence will be going out in the coming days updating the scheme.”
However, traders say business has already been badly hit by the existing works – and some fear they may not survive two weeks of no access for cars.
Instead, they were hoping the council could agree to carry out the roadworks one lane at a time, retaining access for shoppers and residents.
Louise Hankinson-Everatt, who runs the VIP Hair Emporium on the affected stretch of road, said business owners were also unhappy at the lack of communication over the plans.
She said: “It was very vague, noone has ever told us exactly what is happening or when.
“If cars can’t get down here at all, there’s only going to be pedestrians.
“We’re saying if it’s going to be closed that long, some of the businesses here aren’t going to last. We’re all worried.
“It’s a main road into Southport town centre so there’s going to be a knock-on effect there, too.’’
She said she was keen to stress that the workers at the site have been helpful and accommodating throughout the works, but that the issue lies with the impact on the businesses.
The Naughty But Nice sandwich shop and neighbouring flower shop were also said to have felt the impact of the loss of footfall, and traders were still hoping for an alternative plan to the road closure.
Louise added: “Our intentions would be to keep one lane open at a time so cars can still get through, so businesses can stay open and residents can get to their homes.
“We’ve had three new businesses open who are trying to find their feet and it’s making it impossible for them.”
The Sefton Council spokesman said that firm carrying out the works was liaising with those affected throughout the process.
He said: “The contractors who are carrying out the highway enabling works, have a liaison officer, who has been available to meet up with residents and traders prior to and during the works programme. The liaison officer has met with traders who have made contact regarding their interests.
“As we carry out necessary road carriageway resurfacing in May, diversions will be in place but remind shoppers that businesses on Manchester Road remain open and access will be maintained for emergency services and residents where possible.”
Cllr David Barton has added his voice to those asking for an alternative to a whole road closure.
He said: “Having worked previously with Louise and the community in the Manchester Road area on our successful campaign to retain car parking facilities I have once again pledged my support in regarding the resurfacing of the carriageway.
“This is a local matter that has such a far-reaching impact on so many people.
“I have been in touch with Sefton Council and asked that the road is resurfaced in an incremental manner, and for the 18-inch additional paving on the westwards side to be reduced, thus allowing for more car parking spaces.”