SOME members have been reporting an impact on their businesses, caused by the long-term road works which have closed Limeburn Hill and Chew Hill roads up to Dundry for the last few weeks. They noted an improvement when they were temporarily opened at weekends, but have suffered on weekdays.

Obviously, maintenance and improvement works have to be done, and there’s never an ideal time. All we can ask is that the projects are completed as quickly as possible and that clear signage is put in place to say which businesses are open as usual.

However, the fact is that we don’t have that many roads, and diversions can involve people in much longer journeys than normal. I know it can be inconvenient, but I would urge people carry on helping local businesses through the tough times.

There’s not much good news for businesses when it comes to the question of compensation.

However, the understanding of how it affects businesses by the companies undertaking the work on our roads would be a help.

There is some slightly better news when it comes to work by utilities companies, although it’s a complex story. For example, gas companies need to compensate a business for lost revenue if works last more than 28 days.

The amount would be worked out as the difference between profits that would usually have been achieved and those that were earned during the period of works. However, the compensation would have to be above £500 and below 2.5 per cent of yearly revenue. So, it won’t be an easy process.

There are signs up to say there is more road disruption to come during the months ahead. Chew Magna will be affected again, so please, where you can, do continue to support your local businesses around the valley.

Sandy Bell, president, Chew Valley Chamber of Commerce