Businesses in the Powys town of Builth Wells have reported that they are ‘struggling’ with a drop in trade just 10 days after major roadworks, which are expected to last four months, started.

The Shropshire Star says that a number of shops have reported only having one person or even nobody in all day, said Chamber of Trade Chairman Gwyn Davies.

The essential roadworks on the A470 and A483 in the town are expected to continue until March 1 2026.

The work is planned in three phases to reduce disruption to the local community and businesses over the Christmas period.

The first phase is from the Castle Street junction with Hay Road, up to the junction by the Wyeside. This is expected to finish before December 8 2025.

Councillor Gwyn Davies told a meeting of the town council on Tuesday that the problem is the traffic queues due to traffic lights on the town’s bridge and people are also finding it difficult to park in the main car park at the Groe, because of a line of queuing past the entrance.

Builth Wells County Councillor Jeremy Pugh asked Councillor Davies on behalf of the Chamber of Trade and the town clerk to send him evidence of the issues and he would ask if they could have three hours of free parking as an incentive to shoppers.

Councillor Lynda Owen said she did not know if three hours free parking would make a difference because of difficult access to parking on the Groe but Councillor Davies said it would be an incentive for shoppers and it would be a gesture for businesses.

Members suggested the best times for free parking would be between 11am until 2pm.

Councillor Pugh said:

“Whether we will get it or not, I don’t know but we can ask and try it.”

(Picture: Mapillary)