Business owners in London's Old South neighbourhood are raising alarms over the latest phase of the Wellington Gateway project, which has reduced lanes along Wellington Road. They claim the construction is severely impacting their operations and customer access.
Local Business Struggles
Merchants report a significant drop in foot traffic and sales since the lane reductions began. One owner stated, 'It's killing local business. Customers can't get to us easily, and many are avoiding the area altogether.' The project, intended to improve transit and cycling infrastructure, has instead created congestion and frustration.
Project Details
The Wellington Gateway project is a multi-phase initiative aimed at enhancing road safety and promoting alternative transportation. However, the current phase has narrowed vehicle lanes to accommodate bike lanes and sidewalks, leading to traffic bottlenecks during peak hours.
City officials acknowledge the short-term pain but emphasize long-term benefits. 'We understand the inconvenience, but these changes are designed to create a more sustainable and accessible corridor,' said a spokesperson. Construction is expected to continue for several more months.
Some business owners are calling for mitigation measures, such as temporary signage or parking adjustments, to help them survive the disruption. The city has promised to review their concerns.
