A Staffordshire entrepreneur, who invested more than £1m into bringing a derelict pub back to life, is urging people to back local businesses struggling with the impact of the canal bridge being closed in Brewood.
Billy Hutchinson (pictured), owner of The Lesters Arms on Kiddemore Green Road, says footfall has dropped by more than 30% in the wake of road closures put in place to repair structural damage to the bridge.
While he appreciates that the Canal and Riverside Trust and Staffordshire County Council need to act, he wants work to be completed as soon as possible and is calling for greater support for companies being hit by circumstances out of their control.
“We rely heavily on ease of access for customers travelling from nearby towns and villages,” he said. “Since the closure, many regular customers have simply stopped visiting because the journey has become confusing or considerably longer, due to poor signage and the roads used for diversions not being suitable for increased volumes of traffic. For a hospitality business, this level of disruption is extremely damaging.
“It’s tough, especially with the rise in energy prices and other changes to employment costs. However, we’re 100% committed to building on what has been a hugely successful first two years for The Lesters Arms, which has seen us become one of the go-to gourmet pub and restaurants for great drinks, creative food and special events.”
Billy has welcomed the council’s actions to improve diversion signage, but has asked for more regular communication updates so that affected owners can understand repair progress and expected timelines.
He also believes affected companies should be considered for temporary support measures should the disruption continue for an extended period.
