A business leader in Rossendale has called for improved communication and support from two local councils during significant roadworks in Rawtenstall, amid fears that trade is suffering and communication has been 'appalling'. David Gould, of the Rawtenstall Chamber of Commerce, voiced his concerns about the work on the town's 'gyratory' road system at a recent cabinet meeting held by Rossendale Council.
The roadwork is being carried out in stages, with the first phase, from October to December, focused on the northern end of St Mary's Way around Burnley Road and Haslingden Old Road. Now, attention has moved to the junction near the Asda supermarket for January and February.
Modifications include traffic lights, road lanes, underground drains, the old subway, pavements and pedestrian crossing enhancements. In March, the focus will shift to the Bacup Road junction further south.
All this forms part of the Rawtenstall Masterplan, which aims to enhance the town centre and address long-standing traffic and infrastructure issues. It is backed by £17.9million from the former government's Levelling-Up fund, plus £1.5million from Lancashire County Council and £1.8million from Rossendale Council, reports .
Mr Gould addressed Rossendale Council's cabinet meeting and said: "We are not political opponents of the council. We want to work with the council. We have decades of experience and we know Rossendale Council does not owe us a living. However, we also think Rossendale and Lancashire County Council owe us some consideration, which has been missing in the first stage.
"We want to know how our needs will be prioritised unlike last time. We want things to be proactive rather than reactive. For example, we believe traffic management arrangements should be reviewed within 48 hours of new phases."
He highlighted the challenges local businesses face, saying: "In recent days one local business has announced it is closing because of rising costs and a 40 per cent decrease in visitor footfall. Rising National Insurance is another concern. Also, Bolthole, a long-established shop on Bank Street, is closing soon.
What can be done to secure businesses? Some have experienced both flooding and roadworks disruption. What help is available? Maybe there is government support? As I say, we want to work with the councils."
Coun Alyson Barnes, the leader of Rossendale Council, replied: "I think there are two parts to your question. One is about disruption. We are in regular contact with Lancashire County Council and perhaps we can meet regularly with chamber representatives? That might make most sense and allow any issues to be taken-up, as and when? That said, there is going to be some disruption. It's case of trying to minimise it. The last thing we want is a major, long-term impact on trade in any town centre.
She added: "Regarding rates, I understand many businesses will be operating on full rates relief. Around 80 per cent of those businesses must be operating at reduced level, if any rates are being charged? But we will look at this."
Mr Gould replied: "I think it needs further discussion. We should be involved. Lancashire County Council has been appalling so far. They say they will reply to questions in ten days but that is too long in some cases."
Coun Barnes added: "The relationship needs to be dynamic. We have our own issues with the county council. But I think on these issues it has been better. However, we will look at liaison and the rates."
Coun Nick Harris, who holds a cabinet economic remit, confirmed he would hold further discussions with Mr Gould and the borough's regeneration head, Megan Eastwood, who was present at the meeting.
Lancashire County Council has stated that the improvements will enhance Rawtenstall's prospects for the future and has advised commuters to allocate additional time for their journeys. Both Lancashire County Council and Rossendale Council were approached for further comments.
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