Traders ask for help to remain visible as Littlehampton flood defence scheme begins

Pier Road has been closed to traffic as work begins on the flood defences

Since last Monday, Pier Road and Arun Parade have been closed to vehicles as work begins on the new flood defence scheme, which is due to be completed by the end of 2014.

A road diversion sign has been placed in New Road next to the junction of Pier Road, saying businesses are open as usual.

But some traders feel the sign is misplaced and is causing potential customers not to come to Pier Road.

Boyd Torode, owner of Dinky Doo café in Pier Road, said: “It’s having quite a big effect. Trade has been below 50 per cent of what we’d normally take.

“In the last four or five weeks we’ve been doing a lot of dinners and have been building up the trade, but we are now having to build it up again. These flood defences have got to be done and they’re a good thing, but the Environment Agency needs to improve the signs.”

For the full story, including reaction from one trader who thinks the construction of flood defences could bring visitors in, read this week’s Littlehampton Gazette, out on Thursday, October 31.