FURIOUS shopkeepers say roadworks in the centre of a Hampshire village are costing them thousands of pounds in lost takings.

Shops and cafes in the heart of Hythe claim they are being starved of trade during what is normally one of their busiest months of the year.

Hampshire County Council has embarked on a ten-week project to improve the northern gateway to the main shopping area.

The work has resulted in buses based outside the ferry terminal being moved to another part of the village, slashing the amount of passing trade enjoyed by nearby shops.

The council’s decision to do the work during the tourist season has angered members of Hythe Alive, which represents shopkeepers in the parish.

Carol Pass, proprietor of the Secret Garden gift shop, said: “The minute the work started our trade died.

“What’s really annoying is that there are only two men on the job. They start at 8.30am and finish at 3pm – even earlier on Fridays.

Daily Echo:

“During July and August we rely on passing trade to keep us going until the Christmas rush starts in November.

“But buses are dropping off elsewhere in the village and ferry passengers want to get away from the roadworks as quickly as possible.

“I’ve lost thousands. My trade is down 60 per cent, which is an awful lot for August.”

Other businesses hit by the roadworks include BeBe’s cafe.

A spokesman said: “Some of our staff have had their hours cut and I haven’t employed two people I normally take on at this time of year.

“The authorities should have consulted us before deciding to do the work in August.”

Cllr Sean Woodward, the county council’s executive member for economy, said the authority was doing everything it could to minimise disruption.

He added: “We hope the benefits of the finished scheme, which will improve accessibility to businesses, shops and car parks, will outweigh this short-term inconvenience.

“Works have been planned so that one traffic lane remains open, pedestrian access is maintained and car parks are accessible at all times.

“Many of our highway schemes are carried out in the summer months to tie in with the usually drier weather so work can be carried out quickly and without delay.

“The number of workmen on site is restricted due to limited space on site.”