Sandy Row Traders Seek Help Amid Boyne Bridge Closure
Traders on Sandy Row are facing a dire situation as the closure of the Boyne Bridge has severely impacted their businesses. At a recent Belfast City Council meeting, three workers shared their struggles, with one describing the area as a “log-jam or ghost town.” The closure of Durham Street, a result of the bridge dismantling for the new Grand Central Station and Weaver’s Cross plan, has disrupted both the cultural and economic fabric of the community.
Personal Stories Highlight the Challenges
Sarah McCusker, owner of Kut above k9 Grooming, expressed the devastating effects of the bridge closure on her award-winning business. The traffic disruptions caused by the closure have led to significant losses, forcing her to change business hours and accommodate late customers due to standstill traffic. McCusker’s emotional plea shed light on the struggles faced by small businesses in the area, emphasizing the personal toll the situation has taken on her and her colleagues.
Ben Allen of Allens Tours and TA Allen Furniture Shop echoed these sentiments, detailing how the closure has made it nearly impossible for people to reach their establishments. Employees have had to quit due to the lengthy commute times caused by the traffic chaos, while customers are arriving late for tours. Allen’s call for solutions, such as a free parking scheme and rates relief, highlighted the urgent need for support to sustain local businesses through these challenging times.
Commuters and Businesses Struggle with Lengthy Delays
CJ McDowell of Kirks Home Bakery shared the story of employees facing a two-hour commute instead of the usual 20 minutes, resulting in a significant increase in transportation costs and a 40 percent drop in trade for the shop. The ripple effects of the bridge closure extend beyond business owners to employees and customers, creating a domino effect of financial strain and operational challenges.
Calls for Support and Solutions
In response to the traders’ pleas for help, MLA Edwin Poots has engaged with relevant authorities to explore assistance options, with the Minister for Communities Gordon Lyons willing to consider a scheme to aid Sandy Row businesses. The ongoing disruption in the area underscores the urgent need for proactive measures to alleviate the burden on traders and ensure the community’s economic resilience in the face of adversity.
The journey of these Sandy Row traders reflects the broader impact of infrastructure developments on local businesses and communities. As the Boyne Bridge closure continues to reverberate through the area, it is essential for stakeholders to come together and find sustainable solutions to support those affected and preserve the vibrancy of this historic neighborhood.
