Businesses say road closure is affecting trade

Darius Ahmadi has ran Caffe Piccolo for 30 years

Businesses in a Surrey town centre have said they are feeling the impact of a key road being closed for two months for upgrade works.

Downing Street in Farnham is now temporarily part-pedestrianised and closed to through-traffic north of Lower Church Lane.

Tim Oliver, leader of Surrey County Council and Chair of the Farnham Infrastructure Board said the works in Farnham are progressing well and are on schedule.

But Helen Norgate, owner of Blue Tiger Boutique on Downing Street, said: "We have definitely felt a drop in footfall since it started.

"People are still coming in and supporting us, and the support from other retailers has been amazing.

"We've kept each other going, mainly on social media, telling people we are still open for business.

"We hope for an uptick in business once it is done as it will be much nicer."

Downing Street in Farnham is undergoing major works in a project expected to be fully complete in 2027

Darius Ahmadi, who has ran Caffe Piccolo for 30 years, told BBC Radio Surrey: "Lots of business have seen a reduction, but some people go to a different town because of the works.

"Our lunchtime and delivery takings have dropped, there has been an effect on everybody.

"As a result, we have changed our staffing levels, with some staff starting later. I can't take a heavy loss."

He called on Surrey County Council to encourage their contractors to work faster.

The partially-closed road is expected to reopen to motorists in November.

Mr Oliver added: "We meet with traders every month to make sure we're responding to any concerns.

"We're reopening Downing Street on 1 November and moving to less disruptive works away from the main shopping area.

"We hope that this means the crucial pre-Christmas trading period in Farnham is a real success.

"When works are complete, there will be wider pavements creating a more pleasant shopping environment."