BUSINESS owners in Hockley have slammed plans for further roadworks following months of traffic disruption .
Their frustration has been sparked by recently announced roadworks set to take place in the weeks leading up to Christmas.
The traders say the works have significantly hit their business as a result of gridlocked traffic and have now written to the bosses of the utility companies behind them.
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Jeff Stanton, chairman of Hockley Chamber of Trade, said: “We’ve endured eight months of roadworks through Hockley to replace the gas pipes, and now Essex and Suffolk Water want to close Spa Road.
“Businesses will be going to the wall if we allow this.”
Essex and Suffolk Water is set to close Spa Road for a period of two separate days on Sunday, November 23, and Sunday, November 30, with a spokesperson for the firm thanking customers for their patience.
The works are being carried out to connect a new customer to the area’s water infrastructure.
Despite assurances from Essex and Suffolk Water that disruption will be minimised, residents fear the impact of yet another round of roadworks and closures.
In recent months, social media users have labelled the town “Blockley” due to what they say is near-constant traffic in the town centre.
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Mr Stanton said: “Local businesses have suffered badly and need the run-up to the holiday to recoup some sales.
“Hockley has been crossed off by customers as a shopping destination as it’s too much trouble to drive here.”
Cadent, the firm responsible for the recent gas works in Hockley, has said it has been attending Hockley Chamber of Trade meetings and has mitigated the impact on businesses with signs informing shoppers that stores remain open as usual.
A spokesperson for Essex Highways said: “The planned works in Spa Road, Hockley, are essential for maintaining a safe and reliable water network.
“As the local highways authority, we do not initiate or design utility works, but we work to ensure they are carried out safely and with minimal disruption.”
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