Siblings furious that Leighton Buzzard roadworks are hurting crucial Christmas trade

Shopkeeper Susan Mackay claims she is losing custom due to roadworks

Jacky and Susan Mackay, owners of dress by JaS & Ben in North Street, claim the work is highly disruptive and detrimental to trade, particularly now the shop has re-opened in time for Christmas after Covid-19 restrictions.

Jacky said: “We were not informed this would be happening and the timing is just awful.

“We are just recovering from the effects of Covid-19 so this hasn’t helped at all.

“Our shop closed with good grace so this just sticks in the throat a bit.

“We are wondering why the roadworks couldn’t have been done sooner.”

The sisters are also upset that most of the parking bays outside their premises have been taken up by vans, a skip and dug-up road. Persistent noise, they say, is also creating an unpleasant customer experience.

“There is just muck everywhere,” said Jacky. “I’m not saying it’s dangerous but it’s unsightly and a nuisance. It was a pain for one of our customers on crutches who had to negate the mud on the way in to the shop.

“If that’s not enough, there is constant drilling, banging and so much noise we will not be getting much business done in the run up to Christmas.”

Jacky says the roadworks started on Monday, December 7, and that they have had no concrete answer as to how long they will last.

She added: “I’m worried if they go on for a long period of time that customers will think we are closed.

“The parking spaces out of use usually allow shoppers half an hour and give quick access to our shop. It’s just appalling and has really disrupted things.”

A spokesperson for Central Bedfordshire Council said: “The roadworks along North Street are being undertaken by Southern Gas Networks (SGN) for essential gas supply works. SGN are using three parking spaces, which should be back in use by the public by lunchtime on Friday, December 11.

“We apologise for the inconvenience the roadworks are causing and we will continue to monitor the works.”

The work was due to end yesterday, Monday. At the time of going to press Jacky indicated the works are still spread out over at least six parking bays.