Southampton City Centre Drainage Work Chaos

Shopkeepers Fume as Roadworks Return

Southampton’s busiest crossroads – where Above Bar, New Road, and Civic Centre Road meet – is getting new drainage checks. Local businesses are furious, saying constant construction is chasing customers away.

The council promises work will only happen overnight from February 16-20. But shop owners warn the disruption will hurt business 24/7. “It’s another kick while we’re down,” one trader muttered about the timing during winter struggles.

Pubs Hit Hard by “Scatter Gun” Approach

Jason Watling-Mccarthy, who runs The Painted Wagon pub, isn’t holding back. “This is a massive blow,” he says, reporting footfall is already 20% lower than last year. He blames the council’s “scatter gun approach” – too many disconnected road projects causing endless chaos.

“Our deliveries will get messed up, and there’s zero upside for us,” Jason explains. “People avoid the city centre because parking’s impossible and there’s always another construction site. These works just keep customers away.”

Taxi Drivers Stuck in Traffic Nightmare

Cab drivers are equally stressed. Perry McMillan calls the junction “lifeblood” for day and night trade. Detours will make reaching taxi ranks a headache.

“Delays getting to ranks destroy our business,” Perry says. While asking the public for patience, his plea to the council is clear: “Finish fast before more economic damage hits.”

As orange cones multiply, traders hold their breath – wondering if short-term drainage fixes are worth long-term customer loss.