Solution needed for Haymarket Businesses

Edinburgh West MP Christine Jardine has called for action from the council to support businesses badly affected by the closure of Haymarket for the City Centre West Edinburgh Link (CCWEL) roadworks.

Christine visited businesses on Haymarket Terrace last week who say they have been hit by a worrying drop in footfall caused by the road closure and barriers which make public access difficult.

She also heard that both businesses and residents are concerned at the length of time the works are scheduled to take.

The Liberal Democrat MP will be raising the concerns with both the contractors and the council to see if they can improve the situation.

Christine said: “This is the third time these shops have been hit this way in the recent past and some are really beginning to struggle as a result.

“It is also the last thing these businesses need during a cost of living crisis where customers are already being forced to reduce their spending.

"What they are specifical calling for is some way of speeding up the work which is currently scheduled to take around 9 months.

"That would be critical for these businesses, and I will be raising it with both the council and the contractors. 

“But of course, we need to learn lessons from this. That means better communication with the businesses from the start and improved marketing support.”