Kirkcaldy traders say roadworks are '˜a nightmare' for business

Traders have described the decision to completely close Wilson Avenue between Dunnikier Road and Hendry Road roundabout for five weeks to allow for road resurfacing work, as a nightmare that will take them months to recover from.

Abdul Ghuffar, owner of Wilson Supermarket, said his weekly takings are down 75 per cent, the worst he’s experienced in 20 years.

“Trade is so bad I’ve had to put staff on reduced hours, and I’ve had to cut our orders of fresh produce and bread right down because it just wasn’t selling,” he said.

“We must be entitled to some form of compensation.”

And his concerns were echoed by barbershop owner Drew Auchterlonie who said he’d seen his trade halved since the roadworks stated four weeks ago.

“It’s been terrible, really bad this last month.” said Mr Auchterlonie.

“Because of the barriers in place and the road closure many locals have just avoided the area altogether.”

Responding to the trader’s complaints, Alistair Donald, Fife Council’s service manager, said: “Work on Wilson Avenue has been part of a bigger programme of carriageway improvements in the area.

“It was always required that the road would need to be fully closed, unfortunately unexpected engineering issues have meant that more extensive repairs were required than initially planned.

“Alternative arrangements and signage have been in place to assist with deliveries and customer access to shops and businesses during this period.

“The closure is due to be removed today (February 9).”