THE owners of a business near Stroud say they are facing the possibility of closure following constant roadworks.

These upcoming works come despite the local neighbourhood winning a battle to keep a key route open when the roadworks are not being carried out.

Traffic lights in Toadsmoor Road, Brimscombe are being replaced - work began on Wednesday, July 27 and will last until Friday, September 2.

But, after pushback from residents, Chalford Parish Council, and County Councillor Chloe Turner, Gloucestershire Highways have conceded that the road can now open before 9am and after 4pm.

Gloucestershire County Council had planned to keep the road closed entirely for two months until the works were completed.

Despite the reprieve, Jeanette and Gary, the owners of Interiors at No. 36, in Toadsmoor Road, are facing the possibility that their family business will not last the summer months.

Stroud News and Journal:

Founded four years ago, the business weathered the pandemic-enforced closures and lockdowns, only to see sales and footfall plummeting due to repeated road closures.

Owners Jeanette and Gary are fearful for their future.

“In the last twelve months we have had three months of road closures and they are killing our otherwise healthy business," said Jeanette. 

"Highways need to do more to support small businesses.

“We have always supported the community with raffle prizes to schools or giving away vouchers for charities and we believe it is important to do so.

“We were able to do that because our business is viable and was afloat. 

"Now, in the last twelve months we've had three months of road closures, and it's killing our otherwise healthy business."

Beki Aldam, Green Party District Councillor for Brimscombe and Thrupp, said: "Independent and family-run businesses are at the heart of our communities.

“Jeanette and Gary give a lot back to our local area.

“It is unfair that they should bear the economic brunt of constant closures in this way.

“On top of the cost of living crisis and the disastrous soar in energy tariffs, this is enough for them to lose their livelihoods.

"Gloucestershire County Council Highways are extremely busy, and try to maintain all the roads in our county on a tight budget.

“They work hard to ensure the roads are fit for purpose.

“However, I do feel they need to work more closely with both residents and local businesses to ensure the essential works they - and utilities companies - undertake, do not unnecessarily impact those living and working along the roads."

Cllr Dom Morris, Gloucestershire County Council cabinet member for highways, said: “Having listened closely to the concerns of residents about this road closure, I have instructed our contractors to carry out the work from 9am to 4pm each day. 

"There will be temporary lights to manage the traffic outside of these times.

“The work is essential to replace traffic signals in Toadsmoor Road as they can no longer be maintained because of their age.

"I hope this solution will cause less inconvenience to residents and businesses and appreciate their understanding while the work is carried out.”