Road closure threat to Christmas trade in Sherborne
Traders fear a six-week closure of a main road into Sherborne town centre could stifle business in the run-up to Christmas.
Trendle Street will be closed to traffic from Lower Acreman Street to the Half Moon Street junction from Monday until Sunday, December 16, while roof repairs are carried out to Chapter House Book Shop.
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Businesses fear the closure could steer business away, jeopardising trade for good.
Bus routes into the centre will also be re-routed.
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James Biggins, landlord of the Britannia Inn on Westbury, said many diners travel from out of town and may not be able to navigate the route.
He said: “We are stuck right in the one-way system.
“I’m very concerned this will impact on trade and will have a detrimental effect on us all.
“It’s important the diversion route is clearly displayed.”
Helen Brook, owner of Corner House newsagents on Half Moon Street, fears “massive disruption”.
She said: “I heard about it from a neighbour and at first I didn’t actually believe it. It is quite a worry and I think we could lose a lot of passing trade.”
Hannah Wilkins, of Vineyards, Digby Road, said it was a shame the repairs were not planned for a different time.
She said: “I genuinely do not have a problem with the work being done, it’s essential maintenance.
“In the run up to Christmas we are trying to encourage people to come into the town for festive shopping days, carol concerts and other events.
“Sherborne looks really lovely during December and it’s not very inviting to see a road closed and have difficulty getting into the centre.”
Claire Porter, proprietor of Chapter House Books, said the shop would remain open.
She said: “Our landlord informed us of the repairs. We have slates falling off the roof and a few leaks.”
She said the diversion would make it difficult for elderly shoppers to travel into Sherborne.
She said: “A number of my regular customers get dropped off outside which they now won’t be able to do.
“At least three buses regularly travel along Trendle Street and there’s no way they will be able to fit down it while the scaffolding is in place.”
A spokeswoman for First said the number 57 service would be affected and details of any alterations will be published on its website.
Dorset County Council is providing a signposted route.
Dorset County Council has suggested drivers follow a diversion via Westbury, Dancing Hill, Gas House Hill, Station Road and Digby Road. View the council's map below...
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