Independent businesses in Rawtenstall are fearing for their future as 42 weeks of roadworks are set to begin on the town's main Bank Street area, with the start coinciding with the crucial Christmas trading period. Owners of pubs, bars, gift shops and tanning shops worry the disruption will hit footfall at their busiest time of year and have issued a plea for people to 'use them or lose them' in the months ahead.
Business owners raise concerns
Gary Horler, who runs Chuffin' Ale, a beer and wine shop on Bank Street that opened last year, says he has been 'banding together' with other small businesses to raise concerns with local councillors and MPs about the roadworks and their expected impact. However, the outcome has not been welcomed.
"We were previously assured that Christmas trade will not be jeopardised," Gary said. "Well, I was horrified to discover, at the final 'meeting' the other day, where no feedback could be implemented as work schedule was finalised, that the 'phase' that would impact me greatly - as in literally ripping up the access and footpath outside our premises - was scheduled and non-negotiable for an initial six week period from November to January. The whole of Christmas trade impacted."
"This is devastating and could close us for good. We, as well as many other businesses that will impacted, rely greatly on festive trade - and we are being unfairly given no chance. No support. No care."
Plans for improvement
Although Gary is worried for the future and the impact the roadworks may have on trade, he does think the plans for the area "will be a good thing" and will entice more people to come to Rawtenstall. The plans include wider pavements, new parking and loading bays and a one-way system.
Like other business owners, Gary wonders why the works are starting in winter. He says the weather will impact their schedule, while also disrupting the busiest time of the year. "It's going to be rained off and then they won't be able to do anything," he added. "For me personally, and I'm not speaking for anyone else, I've had no reassurances when I raised this but my fear is that they might rip up the pavement outside my business and then it gets rained off for three weeks. Then there will be no path and no access to my business."
Gary added: "We are still open for business and we need the community to support us, more than ever. We want to have a high street still there when the work is completed. I think that's important, we need the public to support us so there's still a thriving high street at the end of it."
Other businesses affected
Also on Bank Street, pet shop and groomers Happy Dogs and Pets say the upcoming roadworks are a 'real concern for us'. They say they're already facing rising costs, just like most small businesses, with the added pressure of footfall declining from the works.
Owner and dog groomer, Richard Coop, said: "We rely heavily on our wonderful local customers, and the last thing we want is for people to think we are inaccessible or that it's too much trouble to visit us. Every customer through the door really does make a difference, whether they're buying their pet's food and treats or bringing their beloved dog in for a groom."
"Independent businesses are the heart of our local community, but we cannot survive without the support of the people around us. We understand that roadworks are sometimes necessary, but we would really urge people to continue shopping locally and supporting small businesses like ours wherever possible. Please don't forget about us! We are still here, still working hard, and still doing our best for our customers and their four-legged family members."
Council response
Lancashire county councillor Warren Goldsworthy, cabinet member for Highways and Transport, said: "We understand why businesses are worried about disruption caused by the improvement works on Bank Street, particularly in the run-up to Christmas. The work will pause over Christmas to reduce disruption at what we know is a really important time for local businesses."
"While there isn't a scheme to compensate businesses for disruption caused by the works, we recognise their concerns and are doing what we can to minimise the impact. The improvements are designed to make Bank Street a more attractive place to visit, shop and spend time, with the aim of supporting local businesses in the longer term. We'll continue to work closely with businesses as the scheme progresses, keeping them updated and responding to any issues that come up."
