Up to 30 separate sets of roadworks are lined up for Shrewsbury’s roads this summer, leading to more misery for motorists and traders.
The various schemes include Wyle Cop, Smithfield Road, Beeches Lane, Hereford Road and Berwick Road, including the ongoing work at Harlescott crossroads.
Business leaders are concerned at the level of the work and expect a decline in passing trade as drivers seek alternative routes.
Work started on Monday at Woodcote Way in Monkmoor with temporary signals being put in place for the works being carried out by Central Networks. They are expected to last one month, with a one-week break for the week of the Flower Show.
Alisha Allen, spokeswoman for Central Networks, said: “We are having to replace nearly two miles of high voltage overhead cables and put them underground.
“We’re sorry for any inconvenience to residents and we have delivered 300 letters to make sure they are aware of the works, which need to be done to improve the supply.”
In Harlescott roadworks have been ongoing since April 12 in Featherbed Lane, Harlescott Lane, Whitchurch Road and Battlefield Road to improve the crossroads. The work is set to finish on August 27.
Councillor Tony Durnell, ward member for Monkmoor, said: “Businesses in Monkmoor rely on passing trade.
“I think the roadworks in Woodcote Way could have an effect because if there is a queue of traffic people won’t want to leave it to stop at the shops. It could affect businesses
that do deliveries. Small businesses rely on people who are just driving through who stop off.
“If there are major roadworks like at Harlescott you change your route to avoid it and even when the roadworks are finished it can be hard to persuade people to change back.”
Karen Jones, manager of Country Pickings florists in Conway Drive, Monkmoor, said she was concerned about the roadworks in Woodcote Way. She said:“We use the road everyday so it will disrupt our deliveries.”
by Anna Williams
