Business owners in Wiltshire say a “nightmare” combination of roadworks and traffic jams is putting customers off visiting their town and threatening their livelihoods.

Businesses have hit out at the number of road schemes taking place across Trowbridge, claiming traffic is becoming increasingly difficult to navigate, and customers are going elsewhere, reports the Wiltshire Times. Delays have been reported on major routes including County Way, Bradford Road and Newtown.

Meanwhile roadworks in Mortimer Street, West Ashton Road and on the B3105 have added to disruption for people travelling into Trowbridge from Westbury, Frome and Melksham

Businesses have said the combined impact is being felt through falling customer numbers, lost income and delivery problems.

Robert Cundick, owner of Alpha Taxis, said journey times to customers had increased dramatically. He said drivers could previously reach customers in around five minutes, but some journeys were now taking 20 to 30 minutes.

“It’s cut our trade and reduced our capabilities by about two thirds. All of our drivers have taken a cut in income as they’re self-employed. It has a knock-on effect for customers if we’re late. People have missed trains, appointments and been late for work.

“The council should have a bigger team and just get on with it.”

Business owners said they understand that roadworks are sometimes necessary but believe the number of schemes taking place simultaneously is creating an unacceptable level of disruption.

(Picture: Mapillary)