Traders concerned ahead of 10-week road closure

Traders in Stamford Bridge say they are open for business despite a 10-week shutdown of the main road through their village.

The single-lane stone bridge will be closed to traffic from 20 May with a signed diversion in place.

Businesses said they were just "hoping" people continue to visit their shops throughout the repairs.

East Riding of Yorkshire Council said the work costing £350,000 was "essential" after the 300-year-old bridge was damaged by vehicles.

Rachel Saunders, who runs Take a Leaf Floristry, said the diversion would add many miles and extra hours to her working day when she is out on deliveries.

She said the shutdown could cost up to £1,500 a week in passing trade.

"This is our livelihood. If we don’t take money, we don’t get paid. I have had months where I haven’t taken a wage," she said.

Gemma Baker, who runs The Square Bakehouse, put a sign outside which jokingly tells customers they have to pay a pound if they want to talk about the closure.

She said: "Lots of people are talking about it and they are laughing about the sign.

"People are asking if we’re planning for it, but what planning can we do if your business is to make bread and for people to come in and buy it.

"We can’t sell it anywhere else – we just have to set up and hope people keep coming here."

Dave Soppelsa runs Riverside Butchers and is also a Stamford Bridge parish councillor.

He said traders were hoping the work would be finished on time before the school summer holidays begin.

Mr Soppelsa said one of the priorities was to get children to school on time, particularly those in year 11 who are sitting GCSEs.

"We are working really hard with York Bus Forum, East Riding Council and all the bus companies to make sure the routes are well published," he added.

Speaking last month, Paul West, East Riding of Yorkshire Council's cabinet member for environment and transport, said the work would cause "major disruption".

He added: "Unfortunately, we don't have any other option but to close the bridge to allow us to carry out this essential work.

"The bridge is badly in need of repair and strengthening because of the damage that's been caused and we can't leave it any longer."

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