WORKS to install fibre broadband in Poole's Old Town are hitting traders, say shop keepers.

Gavin Brooks of vape shop Huffer Puff said the works taking place outside his shop at Grand Parade on the High Street are putting customers off.

The High Street has been closed to traffic between New Orchard and the Quay from Monday September 12 to Friday September 16 while a BT Openreach team gets to work. He told the Echo not only is he missing out on passing trade - but the closure is making it difficult for him to get new deliveries of stock.

He told the Echo: "It's really affecting my business - I'm thinking about closing until it's over - I'm not going to sit here all day for £10."

Gavin, who opened his shop eight weeks ago, said he felt he wasn't properly consulted: "I know it has to be done, but it's poor planning."

Staff in The Little Teapot said it was have a measurable effect on business too.

"We get a lot of people who park and come in for lunch as we have the disabled bays outside. We will definitely feel the impact of it this week."

Others were less concerned.

Craig Sparks, founder of creative agency Vivid Squared, above the Coffee Saloon said he welcomed the work. He added: "It's a bit of an inconvenience - but it is necessary. At the end of the day it's infrastructure local businesses need."

Jason Mann a spokesman for BT said the works were part of a major operation to install fibre cables in the area.

"It is a major investment which ultimately is very good news for local householders and businesses. "The works are substantial and in order for our engineers to work safely it has been necessary to close the road this week.

"All the correct procedures have been followed including liaising with the local authority, and the job is being completed as quickly as possible - we expect it to be completed by Friday."