Wem traders say they are suffering because of major roadworks
Businesses owners in Wem say roadworks, which have closed a major route into the town are hitting trade.
Drainage and resurfacing work was originally due to take place along Soulton Road, Wem, from February 16 to March 27.
However, this date has now been extended by three weeks, after an unforeseen supply issue left the workforce short of the materials.
Robert Shingler, general manager of Lower Lacon Caravan Park, off Soulton Road, said: "The road closure at the B5065 Soulton Road, Wem has probably affected our trade by about a quarter.
"We have found that as we are on the Wem side of the road closure it hasn't been too difficult for us to get to Wem. We have been lucky compared to those on the other sidewho have had time added to their journeys to work.
"The very worst part of the B5065 being closed are the lorries having to travel through Wem."
An application to extend the current road closure was submitted to Shropshire Council on March 20, with the work now aiming to be completed by April 17.
But due to another road closure, on New Street, and to minimise further disruption over Easter, Soulton Road will partially re-open from today until April 12.
The work will then restart from April 13 to April 17.
From April 7 until April 10, New Street will be closed for essential resurfacing work. A signed diversion route via Pyms Road and Lowe Hill Road will be in operation during the road closure.
Ann Ashton, owner at Soulton Hall, said the road closure was understandable but was not "beneficial" to her.
She said: "The road needed repairing; it was in a bad state. It is understandable as it would be dangerous to people repairing the road with lorries and a large amount of traffic passing.
"However it is not beneficial to us and not helping us.
"There has been an impact on our visitor numbers. The road closures are putting people off."
Carolyn Spencer, owner of Tiffanys Cafe on Wem Industrial Estate, Soulton Road, said: "It is affecting me. It is a bit quiet. We have been warned about the road being closed for longer but there is nothing we can do.."
A spokesman for Shropshire Council's consultants Mouchel said: "We're disappointed with the situation and the further disruption to road users and residents.
"We've had to balance the needs of road users over a popular and busy period for travel, alongside the need to finish the work."
