Roadworks have 'massive impact' on local trade

Small businesses marooned by year-long roadworks in Jersey have said they are struggling to survive without financial support.

The project to renew 2km (1.2 miles) of the sewer network has closed a major road connecting St Helier with northern parishes.

Todor Ivanov manages the Union Inn and said it was only the loyalty of his regulars that had kept him afloat.

Minister for Infrastructure Jonathan Renouf said progress was being made on the scheme that was "critical to Jersey's future".

Ivanov said the roadworks had seriously affected trade.

"I have had to cut three jobs so, at the moment, it's myself and the chef and one part-time left.

"Even with the three jobs gone, which is money-wise, it's about £6,000 a month.

"People don't know what to do and it's massive impact, massive."

Ian Kenny, an optician at The Eye Clinic, said the roadworks were particularly affecting older people.

"We have patients who are in their 80s and 90s phoning us lost.

"The signage is either non-existent, inaccurate or too late.

"There are places that you drive to where it says diversion ends, but the diversion hasn't ended.

"There are places that direct you in the wrong direction."

Mark Cox, chief executive of CI Coop, said everyone understood and accepted the need for essential infrastructure works but it had gone on too long.

"It's been a year and if we put it into context in terms of costs for the Coop, we've lost around about £3m of sales.

"There's probably a lack of understanding from government around the impact that these types of roadworks have on businesses, both large and small."

Sam Gaudin, owner of The Gooseberry Bush shop, said the roadworks were putting too much pressure on small businesses.

"There's no signs to The Gooseberry Bush and we're a known and established business and have been for 30-odd years and we do feel like we've been forgotten.

"I've got wages to pay, I've got rent to pay, I've got all the costs coming in for Christmas."

Renouf said the project was a major investment in the island's infrastructure.

"One year on from the start of the Northern Sewer Network Upgrades Project, we are seeing progress on a scheme that is critical to Jersey's future," he said.

"Once completed, the upgraded network will provide additional capacity, improve resilience, support future housing development, including the affordable housing sites, and help reduce the risk of sewer flooding and service interruptions.

"I fully recognise that carrying out works of this scale brings disruption for residents, road users and local businesses.

"I would like to thank everyone affected for their patience and understanding while this essential work is undertaken."

Renouf said he sympathised with affected businesses but there was no legal provision for disruption payments for work carried out under statutory powers.

"These works are carried out are for the public good, improving safety, access, and long-term infrastructure.

"Introducing compensation would set a precedent with wide-reaching financial and legal implications, and no UK or comparable jurisdiction currently offers such rebates.

"I remain open to dialogue and will continue to work with the community to minimise disruption wherever possible."

Renouf said The Northern Sewer Network Upgrades Project was an investment in the island's future.

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