Business owners tell MP they fear redundancies and closures due to impact of new traffic scheme at Westy

BUSINESS owners impacted by the controversial new low-traffic scheme at Westy reported a drop in business and a fear of redundancies and closure during a meeting with Warrington South MP Andy Carter.

Those who met with Mr Carter all reported a drop in trade, with one 40 per cent down since the new measures came into force which involved closing Grange Avenue to through traffic, with eyesore planters.

Mr Carter said: “I met business owners from Westy who’ve been impacted by the low traffic neighbourhood road closures, to hear their experiences.

“Worryingly, in the first few days one business which relies on passing trade reported a 40% drop in takings on the previous week, all reported a fall in business which if not addressed would lead to closures and redundancies. They also told me about the lack of consultation and anger at the way they’ve been treated.

“Warrington’s road network struggles to cope because of the funnelling effect of the bridges over the Mersey and Ship Canal. It’s very clear to see that in the first few days that closing roads such as Grange Ave will result in longer journey times and more air pollution.”

Mr Carter added: “Even while I was standing on Grange Avenue talking to some of the business owners, cars were stopping to ask for directions, one driver who wanted to get to buy new tyres from ATS said he was giving up and going elsewhere.”

“The changes have also had a noticeable impact on children arriving late for classes, I will also be monitoring the impact the changes have on pick-up times for parents coming to the two schools.”

“Almost everyone I speak to wants to see improved air quality and safer roads, but these changes simply move a problem from one road to another without really addressing the causes of the problems.”

“In the coming week I’ll be writing to residents in Latchford to ask for their feedback on the scheme, in the meantime anyone wanting to share their views can email:
[email protected] and remember to cc me into your feedback: [email protected]

Warrington Borough Council has said they are open to making improvements to the trial scheme, aimed at reducing traffic and making streets safer and less polluted, based upon local feedback.