GAS works in the centre of Abergavenny are putting pressure on local traders during their most vital time.

The West Wales Utilities renewal works on the gas supply in Cross Street started on Monday September 17 and the road is expected to be closed for another two weeks.

The next phase of the work will start on October 15 and the road will be controlled by two-way traffic lights for six weeks.

Around 500m of old cast iron gas pipes will be renewed together with 120 new services and will cost about £200,000.

But local traders say the road closure is turning the area into a ghost town, particularly with the additional road works on the Heads of the Valleys Road.

Andy Hinksman, President of Abergavenny Chamber of Trade and Commerce said the streets surrounding Cross Street have also been affected as the road closure is discouraging visitors.

He said: "I'm sure it's going to have a dramatic effect.

"The problem we have is that these months are the busiest in the year for traders and the work will bring us quite close to Christmas so we are hoping and praying that there won't be any delays."

James Joesph, who owns Abergavenny Music Shop on Cross Street added: "We're right in the middle of it here.

"I do appreciate that the works need to be done, but I'm not surprised that people are struggling. At a private shop level, even losing a small turnover means a lot."

Ian Poutney runs the Menswear shop on Frogmore Street and says it is the quietest he has ever seen.

He said: "It certainly is putting a lot of pressure on businesses and so we are calling on the people of Abergavenny to give us support."

West Wales utilities were unavailable for comment.

  • Effected traders can apply for compensation and forms can be collected from the West Wales Utilities office in Abergavenny.