Local businesses say they feel frustrated and abandoned following the latest round of delays associated with the Corporation Bridge repairs.
Last month North East Lincolnshire Council announced that the completion of works would be delayed until December 2026. By the time it reopens the businesses in the immediate vicinity will have suffered the effects of the closure for around four years.
Gi Grimsby News spoke to various businesses who said the closure has led to a decrease in vehicular and foot traffic, which is taking its toll on trade. They say reduced accessibility has diminished customer traffic to their establishments leading to a decline in commercial activity.
The owner of Fur and Feathers, a pet shop located on Corporation Road, expressed their frustration towards the latest announcement.
They explained how, since the closure, there has been a huge lack of footfall and traffic that comes down Corporation Road – meaning unless locals want something specific, they do not use the road. This has resulted in the business completely missing out on passing trade.
Fur and Feathers also expressed concern over the council’s communications with businesses, stating that when they reached out to the council they were met with ‘redirected blame’. They said they feel ‘abandoned’ by the council, adding that in their view the authority hasn’t taken accountability over the delays and what it means for local businesses, and that no support has been provided for those affected.
Fur and Feathers have not been the only local business to feel this way, Paw Pantry Empawrium also explained how the lack of traffic flowing has affected them, saying that it has been difficult for business.
They told Gi Grimsby News they feel the council has shown a lack of understanding about the impact of the delays on people’s livelihoods.
In a joint statement issued by Council Leaser Councillor Jackson and Portfolio Holder for Transport Councillor Swinburn, they said: “We have taken charge, we are clear on accountability, and we have taken the right steps to ensure a situation like this doesn’t happen again. This situation is unacceptable, and we share the views of many local people.
“However we cannot turn back the clock and what is vital now is that we move on, we get this right and we return what is a highly important historical asset back to its former glory.”
