Parking chaos hits Ravenside traders

An Observer investigation has revealed many of the national chains based at the Bexhill shopping venue are losing customers as people are put off by confusing diversions and the apparent lack of parking.

A large proportion of Ravenside's spaces have been taken out of commission while an expansion programme, which may not be finished until August, takes place.

Shoppers have complained of chaos in amongst the two way system, with much of the road fenced off.

Stores have admitted to a declining number of customers but would not comment on whether they are losing money as a result.

A spokesperson for Tesco, said: "There has been a drop in the number of customers coming into the store but I can't quantify that. It's not our land but Tesco has done all it can to free-up space and make it easy for customers to reach us."

Other stores are experiencing similar difficulties. "It's fair to say business has been affected because customers are not sure they can get to us to park. We are still trading as normal and want to reassure people they can park. In the long-term the work will be good for Ravenside," said a spokesperson for hardware chain B&Q.

However, some businesses remain philosophical about the parking issue and say the changes will be to their benefit.

Iceland would not comment on how the work was affecting trade, only to say: "It's very much business as usual for us. We have a new-look store which has proved very popular. We are looking forward to the work being completed. Ultimately it will be very good for the park."

Owners of the retail park, Land Securities, declined to comment.

The work to the retail park coincides the announcement made in March that the county council and Rother are seeking funding for a 2 million station scheme near the complex.