HIGH street businesses are reporting reduced footfall as roadworks in Christchurch Road continue.

A series of phased closures have been put in place in Ashley Road and Christchurch Road to allow contractors to carry out highway resurfacing works.

However, businesses in Christchurch Road say the lack of access to the road has caused a loss of income.

Jayne Carr of the Dorset Children's Foundation charity shop said: "It has made a difference because we're a charity shop so we're not getting donations in like we used to.

"We've still got some trade when people walk in on foot, obviously until next week when the bus stop reopens by us then it might help a bit then but it's made a difference with regards to donations for us as a charity.

"I would say we've had less people in because people are avoiding the area which I understand you know it's got to be done, so definitely the footfall will be down.

"Going by the stages and where they're at at the moment, next week my section of the road will be open, so the buses will come round to go one way next week so that should help a bit.

"It's got to be done, there's not a lot we can do about it now, it's always going to affect somebody. Some businesses I would imagine it has really affected an awful lot, I don't know how the cafes who are open for deliveries and have fresh food are managing but it has made a difference to us over the last two weeks."

Michelle from Marroy's Bar said: "There's a lot of customers and regulars who are infirm or on crutches and they can't get in, they can't get anywhere near the place. I'm working at the minute and I've got one customer here, it's really bad to be honest. It's definitely impacted us and our takings."

Another businesses said they have been less impacted by the closures.

A spokesperson from Beyond the Fringe said: "It's not been too bad, the only thing it has affected is our walking time but all of our regulars are still coming in for their appointments."

Starting on February 28, Ashley Road was closed from Christchurch Road roundabout to the exit junction of Boscombe Bus Station. The closure lasted until March 1.

Ashley Road was then closed from the same roundabout to Browning Road until March 9.

Phase three will see Christchurch Road close from Crabton Close Road to Warwick Road. The closure will be in place from March 10 to March 15.

Christchurch Road, from Parkwood Road to Seabourne Road, will then be closed from March 16 to March 21 for phase four of the works.