A BUSINESS has hit out at disruptive roadworks which it says has slashed its takings by 50 per cent.

Nurturing By Nature is located just off Abbots Road in Pamphill and is affected due to St Margaret's Hill being closed.

The road is closed until November 4 due to resurfacing work, and those running the business say there has been a definite decline in customers through the door.

In the space of one week, sales at the pet food shop have dropped by 50 per cent.

Director and co-owner Emma Platt says in half-term they usually see between 30-40 customers per day.

However, since the nearby roadworks have started, by 3pm they have only welcomed around seven, with the car park being "unusually empty". 

Emma said: “This situation is concerning for our livelihood and the local economy.”

Here is a video that Emma has created documenting her experience:

She says she will be actively seeking compensation for the coming week of decreased sales.

Emma told the Echo the shop is still accessible but that customers will have to be “incredibly dedicated” to attend.

The roadworks are present for a week and Emma insisted she will never close the shop but said: “We certainly expect to see a lot more people than we are.”

The business was informed the roadworks were taking place but said it was not aware that there would be such an “extensive” and “large” diversion.  

In response to these complaints, a Dorset Council spokesperson said: “We are currently resurfacing the road at St Margaret's Hill due to its poor condition.

“There is no ideal time to do this work, having to avoid the school term and the summer holidays. We also need to complete the work before the winter weather sets in which could delay the resurfacing until next year.

“Given the layout of Wimborne’s road network, a short diversion was not possible, unfortunately.

“However, by working between 9am and 4pm, we are trying to reduce the impact for as many people as we can.

“Combined with other utility works in the town, this is frustrating but we are committed to completing our work swiftly, with a target to finish by this weekend.”