Road works, emergency repairs to a gas line and typically quiet January trade have created a ‘perfect storm’ for businesses in Dereham, it has been claimed.
As planned works take place on Matsell Way and emergency gas works have closed Swaffham Road, travel across the town has been made difficult and has had a knock-on effect for traders.
The gas works are taking place outside The George Hotel, and the manager there, Oliver Hepworth, has said the closure signs have had an impact on trade.
He said: “More people would be walking past without the signs in place, and I would guess we’ve had a 30pc decrease in passing trade because of the works.
“It is a big hit, it does not help, I understand the work needs to be done, but it is far from ideal.
“I have offered people free use of our car park so they do not have to drive around the closure.”
One of his staff members added that the road closure has turned a five-minute drive into a 20-minute journey.
The disruption is set to last for a week.
Across the other side of town, work to improve Matsell Way is being carried out to widen the crossing, repair the road and pavement surface and lay pipes - with work expected to last until March 15.
This has created a “perfect storm”, according to Andy Sullivan, owner of Norski Noos gallery.
“I like to think I am mirroring everyone because it is ridiculous. It is chaotic on the road and it has a detrimental effect because people will not come into Dereham and businesses are losing out on money.
“It is the perfect storm, the road works, typical January trade, and the cost of living crisis. It speaks for itself, and adds to the woes.”
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