CRIPPLING delays on the A338 Spur Road were discussed when Bournemouth’s business leaders met council chiefs and contractors.

They demanded answers in a bid to improve access to the town, particularly over the crucial Christmas period.

Among those present at the meeting were representatives of both the town centre and coastal BIDs (Business Improvement Districts), Bournemouth Chamber of Trade, Bournemouth council leader John Beesley and contractors Hanson.

Cllr Mike Greene, Cabinet member for Transport, Cleansing and Waste was also present and said there were “positive outcomes” from the meeting.

He said lane closures which were planned over the opening weekend of the new Christmas Tree Wonderland in Bournemouth on November 17 and 18 have now been put off after pressure from businesses.

He added: “It was useful that we could put the voices of Bournemouth business in front of the contractors so they could hear first-hand what the issues are.

“It is frustrating for us - the operational side of this is not in our control. It is a Dorset County Council (DCC) scheme on Dorset County Council land, but under the BIG (Bournemouth International Growth) programme.”

He said it was “disappointing” that DCC did not send a representative to the meeting.

The nine-month Spur Road scheme has already seen motorists travelling southbound delayed for hours.

Alternative routes have also been at a standstill as motorists try to find different ways of getting into Bournemouth.

Last week Town Centre BID Chief Operating Officer Paul Kinvig called on council leader John Beesley to stand up for local businesses.

He appealed for the roadworks to be lifted in mid-November, rather than from December 10 as planned and said: “Given that 80 per cent of Christmas shopping is done in October and November this will put at risk the massive investment both BIDs and Bournemouth council have made into the Christmas Tree Wonderland project which launches on November 16.”

He said delays “cannot be allowed to happen” and said businesses would be damaged.

In reply, Cllr Beesley said delays are “easing” and “generally minimal” and said he has little influence over the scheme. He said he is doing his best to influence how the works are carried out.

Following Monday’s meeting, weekly updates will now be given to the BIDs.