Battle roadworks cause headache for traders

The roadworks, which started last week at the zebra crossing opposite the Post Office, have upset traders, who say it has made it difficult for customers to reach them and to receive deliveries.

Nick Moore, director of Battle Computers Ltd, said: "I have spoken to a number of shopkeepers who all feel the works have impacted on their businesses, including mine.

"What doesn't help is the apparent lack of urgency displayed by the workmen.

"Whenever I have driven or walked past, one particular chap has been either eating, talking on his mobile phone, smoking, idly standing around or sunning himself in a deck chair.

"At the end of the day these contractors charge huge sums of money - which has to be met by us, the tax payer."

Andy Smith, from Y'Ore Store, criticised East Sussex County Council for scheduling the work at the beginning of the summer season.

He said: "The High Street is constantly gridlocked and as a trader my business is suffering as it is hard for my deliveries to park and takes an age for customers to not only park, but cross the road.

"Why do this work now when it creates so much disruption and hardship, why not in October or March - its just ludicrous."

An East Sussex County Council spokesman said: "We understand roadworks are frustrating for people but unfortunately they are something we have to put up with from time to time and we hope people will bear with us.

"We worked with Battle Town Council in planning these works, which involve improvements to the existing zebra crossing at Battle Green and a loading bay for delivery vans to reduce congestion on the High Street. The work got underway at the end of April and is due to finish before the end of May – in time for the busy summer period."