Firms fear loss of trade during bridge closure in Rochford (From Southend Standard)

Purdeys Industrial Estate traders worried as main route is shut for four weeks

9:00am Tuesday 4th September 2012 in Echo News By Michelle Archard

BUSINESSES on an industrial estate have vowed to stay open, despite roadworks leaving them marooned for four weeks.

Firms on Purdeys industrial estate, Rochford , will keep trading even though Essex County Council plans to shut Sutton Ford bridge for essential maintenance.

The bridge closure will mean motorists will be diverted away from Sutton Road, the main route to the industrial estate, for four weeks from September 10.

Carl Cantor, from the Fun Factory on the estate, said: “We want people to know we are open for business, despite the roadworks.

“We hope it won’t affect business too much, especially as we only opened this week.”

Last year, the Echo revealed Sutton Ford bridge had failed mandatory safety tests and needed urgent repairs. The initial work will include the construction of a temporary footbridge, with part-time traffic signals, in Sutton Road.

When the road is closed, the existing bridge will be strengthened. Bus services and school bus services will work to a revised timetable.

The diversion will take motorists via Sutton Road, Southend Road, Rochford Road, the A1159 Manners Way, the A1159 Priory Crescent, and the A1159 Eastern Avenue.

An Essex County Council spokesman said: “The works are essential to ensure the deteriorating bridge is restored to a safer standard and can continue to handle the relevant load capacity required of it.

“To facilitate this work, and in the interest of public safety, Sutton Road will be closed to traffic over the bridge for four weeks.

“Access will be maintained for pedestrians and dismounted cyclists during the road closure period.

“Essex County Council would like to apologise in advance for the inconvenience caused.”