MORE and more business owners in Dunstable are coming forward to speak of their fears of bankruptcy due to Central Beds Council’s Court Drive revamp.
During the revamp, a one-way system is in place between Central Beds College and Kingsway, and heavy traffic is being caused by the roadworks near Asda.
One businessman, Patrick Hamill of Able2Drive driving school, went as far as to tell the Gazette: “It is not dying – Dunstable is dead.”
He continued: “It is OK for councillors to say that there are benefits for businesses once the works have been completed but that will only happen if those businesses survive these works in the first place.
“The council should not expect any business to take a hit because of their work programmes”
Eddie’s Chinese Supermarket is new to the area, but owner Eddie says he is already struggling despite his unique selling point.
He said: “I’ve had customers book live lobsters but have to cancel their orders.
“Even though it is much further to Milton Keynes or London, people will go there because it is easier – it is very dangerous to my business.
Susan Jay, who owns hairdressers Barnet Fair, told the Gazette: “They’re looking to regenerate the town but at what cost?
“Something needs to be done.Offer free car parking and improve the town centre. We’ll have beautiful roads but no shops.
“They’re just killing us off, they’ll drive us all out of town if they’re not careful. I don’t want to leave the town.”
Zakariah Quddos, who has been particularly vociferous in recent weeks about the effect the roadworks are having on his takeaway business told the Gazette: “I feel like a train is running over my body.
“They say that the roadworks will do the town good. But I say please, please let me survive long enough to see this good.”
Councillor Nigel Young told the Gazette: “We know it’s an issue and we are doing our absolute best to minimise disruption.
“The business owners are having daily meetings with Councillor Carole Hegley and the Project Manager Ben Gadsby. I’m also happy to meet with them.”