One year on since torrential rain caused havoc and heartbreak in Ludlow, traders are still suffering the effects – mainly the closure of Coronation Avenue while a new Burway Bridge is built to replace the one swept away.
Just days after the floods, Lower Corve Street was closed to traffic to allow residents time to clean up and to prevent car drivers using it as a “rat run” to access the town centre. But many are unhappy with the decision.
Drivers are now advised to use the bypass and come in to Ludlow via Henley Road and Gravel Hill – again a route that could mean the town losing business.
Malcolm Morris, who runs Station Motors on Corve Street told the Journal: “There’s a nucleus of people at the bottom of Corve Street who don’t want traffic going past their doors but, in the economic climate, it doesn’t make sense. Let’s get it open. There’s no reason why it shouldn’t be open, it’s blatantly obvious it’s strangling the town.”
Gary Walters, of Ludlow Brewing Company, suggested the street could be opened to one-way traffic coming into Ludlow from the Shrewsbury direction.
He said: “I would like it to open one way, for the common sense of the town. Our regular customers are coming still, but the custom from people just driving past has dropped off considerably.”
Councillor Martin Taylor-Smith said: “We know people are having a difficult time. Turnover is down by 30%. We are not into gestures, we are into practicalities. We will listen.”
Philip Dunne MP said: “I have received representations from businesses and residents concerned about the future of Ludlow.
“I have been working with the town centre’s district councillors Martin and Rosanna Taylor-Smith, as well as others concerned, to find ways to boost trade in the town, particularly during this difficult period while the main access from the north is closed for repair of Burway Bridge.
“I hope each organisation will be represented to discuss a variety of measures to see the town through this difficult period.”
Mr Dunne is today chairing a meeting of local businesses, trade organisations and council representatives, following complaints from traders they are losing money.
The meeting starts at 10am in Ludlow’s Bishop Mascall Centre.
