Business owners have raised their concerns about the impact of roadworks in Nailsworth, which they say has a negative impact on trade and footfall.
George Street is currently impassable after contractors carrying out resurfacing works accidently hit a gas pipe last week. The impact on traders has been palpable with footfall falling off a cliff and creating a feeling reminiscent of lockdown around the town.
Paddy Clatworthy, who runs The Olive Tree restaurant & coffee house in George Street is fearful some independent traders may be forced to close, he told Stroud Times: “This is Easter holiday time and this is one of our boom times and this has massively impacted on our trade and all of Nailsworth and in particular George Street.
“Morrisons car park is normally rammed and now you can get a space anytime of the day – it’s incredible, so please do come on down and support these independent traders, because without this support, they’re going to close.”
Paddy Coyle, who owns Nailsworth Computer Shop in George Street, told Stroud Times: “It has been terrible for footfall – you only have to look at the empty car park in Morrisons. You speak to any of the other shopkeepers, they were 75 per cent down on trade last week.”
Watch traders Paddy Clatworthy and Paddy Coyle deliver their verdict on how trade is being impacted.
Andrew Wilding, Wales & West Utilities Operations Manager for Stroud, told Stroud Times: “We are continuing to work in the George Street area of Nailsworth to repair damage to a gas pipe caused by third-party contractors resurfacing the road.
““This is a complex job, and the nature of the damage has meant we needed to bring in additional teams to support our work.
“Due to the amount of repair work required, we expect our work to continue into next week. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, we aim to complete a full repair by May 2.
“In agreement with Gloucestershire County Council, and in order to keep the local community, road users and our colleagues safe, we will keep the Council’s road closure along George Street in place while we work.
“We would like to thank everyone for their patience while we work to make this essential repair.”
