Landlord vows to fight on despite four-month roadworks

Michael Bailey runs the Royal Oak, in Wineham Lane, Wineham, roughly one mile from where work to fix a small bridge has closed the road for a duration of four months.

He said: “We are at a stage where we have no idea how much the roadworks are going to impact us because we are in the early stages, but it could have a sizable impact.

“We are very much a community pub that is reliant on regular visitors. Our vegetables are supplied by Swaines Farm and all our food and drink is locally sourced so the road closure has impacted them.

“The road works have essentially formed a cul-de-sac outside the pub which has caused us to rely even more on local trade at a time when running a pub is not easy.

“I just want people to know we are still here and desperate to keep it going as an old country pub.”

The roadworks, conducted by West Sussex County Council, have closed off Wineham Lane to traffic approaching from the southern end but the road is still open to bicycles and pedestrians.

Vehicles can now only access the road from the A272 at the north end, or via Bob Lane and Kent Street.

West Sussex County Council said the safety work over the Sake Ride watercourse is ‘essential’ as the structure has reached the end of its ‘serviceable life’.

A spokesman added: “Unfortunately, the narrowness of the road and extent of the excavation means the route will be closed for about 16 weeks, for the safety of the public and workforce. We apologise for any inconvenience.

“A temporary route, just to the east of the work site, will be provided so that non-motorised road users, including equestrians, can pass the works safely.

“Full access to all properties and businesses will remain available, albeit from one approach only.”