BRANKSOME traders say they feel like ‘second class citizens’ as an improvement project outside their shops remains incomplete months after it was due to finish.

Poole Road saw months of works as part of the Three Towns Travel project, including a new bus lane and new bus stops.

Part of the £450,000 improvement project, which started last January, was work to make the area in front of the shops opposite John Lewis more attractive.

But more than a year after it all began, the resurfacing of the pavement there is incomplete and works to install a new bus shelter are still in progress.

Steve Whitemore of Whitemore Butchers said it ‘took the biscuit’ when the new bus shelter was installed outside John Lewis opposite their shops while works around them remained in limbo.

He added: “It’s like we’re in a little Twilight Zone here. It’s not until you push and push and push that you get a response from the council. If you’re trying to bring the area up – do it properly.”

Paul Allen of neighbouring furniture store Allens of Branksome said the uneven pavement outside his premises floods regularly. He added: “We’re definitely second class citizens. You phone up the council and they are very informative – but what they inform you of just doesn’t happen.”

Richard Pinnegar, traffic manager, Borough of Poole, said: “The replacement of the bus shelter adjacent to the shops on Brank-some Parade was unfortunately delayed last year, but this has now been completed.

Resurfacing works are due in the coming weeks, replacing the temporary surface to improve appearance and drainage.

“We appreciate the patience of residents and businesses in the area whilst these works are completed, and we will continue to work with the businesses on Branksome Parade to address any concerns.”