CHAMBER OF COMMERCE’S ‘ROAD RAGE’ OVER UNLOADING BAN – “a shop without goods cannot function as a shop”
THE CLOSURE of part of Church Road for four weeks for unavoidable water main works has prompted anger from the town’s Chamber of Commerce.
In a strongly-worded letter to Croydon council, Crystal Palace Chamber of Commerce chairman Paul Bartholomew says traders on the blocked-off part of Church Road between the top of Anerley Hill and its junction with Westow Street are not being allowed to load or unload.
“We understood that common sense would prevail in the month long closure of Church Road for essential repairs and that local access for cars was granted.
“We know now that without any consultation with local traders there will be no loading allowed. “This is not acceptable as it is a restriction of trade.
“While we accept that the works are vital for the infrastructure of the area and that businesses are not entitled to compensation for loss of trade, there are such provisions when things are done improperly.
“And making it impossible for traders to receive or deliver goods is of breach of covenant under the provision of council services act. “The council is accountable as Croydon have issued the TMO, not Thames Water and Croydon will be enforcing the parking suspensions.
“Traders may well be forced to park illegally in order to carry out business. “This could lead to confrontation and unpleasantness if council contracted parking officers are over zealous in enforcement.
“I suggest that a flexible scheme be set up so that Thames Water can work without impediment and traders can receive and deliver goods without fear of penalty. “You will agree that a shop without goods cannot function as a shop.
“Could you kindly consider this with your fellow officers and come back with a suggestion how to proceed.”
A Thames Water spokeswoman told News From Crystal Palace: “Everything has been done in conjunction with the council and while access for deliveries etc will be more difficult than usual it’s not prohibited.”