Shop owners in Whitchurch, Cardiff, are concerned that five months of gas pipe upgrades will disrupt trade for the second Christmas in a row. Wales & West Utilities is set to begin work on October 21 on Merthyr Road, a main route through the village, with completion expected by March 2020.
George Lazarou, who has run a hairdressers and barbers on the main street for 37 years, said he lost around £10,000 last year due to pedestrian crossing works. “I understand the work needs to be done, but it is a terrible time of the year for it to start,” he said. “It is killing our businesses.”
Wales & West Utilities says the £725,000 investment is essential to keep the gas network fit for the future. Programme controller Adam Smith said: “Access to all properties will be maintained, and local businesses will be open as usual. Rolling two-way traffic lights will be manned during peak times to minimise disruption.”
Tom Champ, owner of Play Loft and organiser of the village Christmas lights, said the switch-on event on November 17 will go ahead as planned after discussions with the utility company. Local businesses may be eligible for compensation under the Gas (Street Works) Compensation for Small Businesses Regulations 1996.
A customer service vehicle will be stationed at Heol Y Gors on October 16 from 3 to 7pm for residents to ask questions.
