Business owners express frustration over prolonged construction barriers

Local businesses in Castlegate demand action from Aberdeen City Council regarding barriers affecting foot traffic

In the heart of Aberdeen, the ongoing saga of construction barriers has left local business owners in Castlegate feeling frustrated and unheard. The barriers, which were initially erected for pavement flagstone repairs, have remained in place long after the completion of the work, leading to significant concerns about foot traffic and sales.

Impact on local businesses

Since the construction began in June and concluded in August, shopkeepers have reported a noticeable decline in customer visits.

Calum Rattray, owner of Castlegate Collectables, voiced his discontent, stating that the council failed to consult with local businesses regarding the construction timeline and the necessity of the barriers. “All the slabs have been repaired, and they’ve just kept the fence there,” he lamented. Rattray, along with other shopkeepers, believes that the barriers create a perception that the area is closed, deterring potential customers.

Concerns about safety and accessibility

Another business owner, Lennon Brown of Grade A Barbers, echoed these sentiments, describing the barriers as a “massive fence” that obstructs foot traffic.

He expressed confusion over the need for the fencing, especially after the completion of the necessary repairs. “If they’ve done what they needed to do, I don’t understand the point of having it up,” Brown stated, emphasizing that the barriers are detrimental to business and accessibility in the area.

City council’s response and future plans

In response to the growing concerns, a spokeswoman for Aberdeen City Council explained that the fencing was necessary to protect the newly repaired flagstones from vehicular traffic until they fully set and settled. The council has plans for further resurfacing work around Mercat Cross, which will involve replacing flagstones with a temporary road surface to enhance safety. However, the ongoing presence of the barriers has raised questions about the council’s communication with local businesses and their commitment to supporting the local economy.

As the situation unfolds, business owners in Castlegate continue to advocate for the removal of the barriers, hoping to restore foot traffic and improve their sales. The call for better communication and collaboration between the city council and local businesses remains a pressing issue, as the community seeks to navigate the challenges posed by ongoing construction.