IT will be business as usual in Christchurch town centre from September even though there are plans to dig up the High Street.

That’s the pledge from the vice chairman of Christchurch Chamber of Trade Stephen Bowden following earlier warnings that the three-month Southern Gas Networks scheme will be “disastrous” and cause major disruption.

SGN will be “upgrading” the local gas supply network from Tuesday, September 24, closing roads and putting in temporary traffic lights.

Bridge Street solicitor Mr Bowden said: “These are essential works and need to be done.

“There is never an ideal time, particularly in a tough economic climate, but the message must go out that we will be trading as normal.

“Car parks will all be open and it will be business as usual.

“Hopefully a comprehensive traffic management plan will minimise disruption.

“Many traders are worried about the works but we have to take a pragmatic view; it is something we are all going to live with.”

All work will be suspended in December during the town’s busy festive season and will resume on January 6.

Tony Mathews, from Mathews Shoes on the High Street, said: “It is inevitable trade will be affected but hopefully disruption will be kept to a minimum. We don’t want shoppers to be put off coming to Christchurch.”

Paul Maguire, owner of Maguires fish and chip shop on the High Street, who also attended a drop-in session at the Kings Arms Hotel in Castle Street, said: “Coming here has alleviated my fears. The work has to be done; otherwise the High Street could blow up. It is tough for everyone but we have to carry on.”

Earlier the president of Christchurch Chamber of Trade Peter Watson-Lee warned that the roadworks would be “disastrous” for the town.

But SGN project manager Phil Bell said: “We will be doing everything we can to minimise disruption during this essential work.

“Our teams will be working extended hours and the Monday market will continue as normal throughout.”