Concern as work impacting Butcher's trade extended

The road at Wheal Rose in Scorrier has been closed since the end of March

An award-winning Cornish butcher has blamed major roadworks for a 30% drop in trade, as the work was extended by at least seven weeks.

The work at Scorrier, to repair a collapsed road caused by an old mine subsiding, was due to finish in August, but has now been extended to 20 October.

Etherington’s Meats, based at Wheal Rose near Scorrier, estimated the work had cost the business between £40,000 and £50,000 since it began in March.

Cornwall Council said it "understands the concerns of residents" and local businesses, but stressed the contractor was facing "significant challenges" at the site.

'Not a typical closure'

The owners of the 70-year-old family butcher's, which employs 80 people, fears it will struggle even more as it enters the quieter autumn and winter months.

Manager Mark Etherington said the roadworks were "really damaging our shop and wholesale business", adding "it’s scary times".

Since the roadworks began, lorries have had to reverse out of the company's car park on to the road, he said.

Mr Etherington added: "It’s a dangerous manoeuvre, the diversion is dangerous and often blocks the road which is not made for large lorries."

A spokesperson for Cornwall Council said it had been "sharing regular information to keep everyone updated".

The council said the contractor faced "challenges include rising water levels in the mine" as well as overhead cables, adding that it was "important to note that this is not a typical highway closure".

"The concerns around reversing lorries is being reviewed and additional warning signing will be provided where possible," it said.