Walsall Council reacts to criticism over roadworks by defending railway and cycle lane projects
Traders in a town in Walsall claim they are facing a severe dip in takings due to roadworks on two thoroughfares
Walsall Council said traders facing a severe dip in takings due to roadworks on two thoroughfares into Willenhall, town centre will be entitled to rate relief.
Angry traders claim ongoing road closures, one-way routes and traffic diversions for work to build the new railway station off Bilston Street and to install a cycle lane between New Road and the A454 Keyway Island were putting off shoppers.
Jiwand Gaind, aged 66, of clothes shop Golden Girl in Market Place said business had halved in recent weeks after the closures extend from Bilston Street to New Road and Somerford Place with shoppers travelling by bus between Wolverhampton and Walsall, and in taxis voting with their feet along with around six market vendors.
In a statement the council explained: "We understand that roadworks and the resulting congestion can be incredibly frustrating for residents and businesses alike and we want to thank everyone for their patience as we work to deliver this much-needed regeneration activity as swiftly and safely as possible.
“The funding grant conditions imposed on the council mean that on this occasion nearby projects must be delivered concurrently and the traffic management has been designed to safely deliver all the works in the shortest possible time.
“Small businesses can apply for business rate relief which may mean a temporary reduction in business rates if premises are found to be financially affected by severe disruption from roadworks. Information is available on the gov.uk website.
“Contractors working on site in Willenhall must ensure that any alternative access arrangements affected by the works are safe, accessible, well-signposted and suitable for all users, including those with mobility issues. Measures are in place to support residents who may find walking in the area difficult during this time.
“Residents affected by access issues resulting from the roadworks in Willenhall are encouraged to contact Walsall Council.”
Labour's Willenhall South ward representative Councillor Simran Cheema said having the two major projects running at the same time was the result of "bad planning" by council chiefs.
"This scheme should have been delivered in phases to minimise disruption and impact on local businesses and residents," Councillor Cheema said.
Walsall Council leader Mike Bird has apologised for the inconvenience caused and said the two different sets of roadworks, which have seen several hundred yards of safety barriers installed along the two main roads and some side streets, will be "short-term inconveniences with long-term benefits" for the town's economy.
