BUSINESSES near a new Park&Ride site being built in York claim they are losing trade due to poor signage.

Restaurants close to the new Poppleton Bar P&R say drivers coming along the bypass from the A19 roundabout at night face signs saying the road is closed, but there is nothing to tell them nearby businesses are open as usual.

Sharell Richardson, from the Wetherby Whaler at York Business Park, said: "We realise the work has to happen for a reason, but when you come down from the Rawcliffe roundabout the signs just say 'road closed' and there's nothing to say businesses here are open as usual and it's meant things have been really difficult. Our takings are down on takings from previous years."

Rural West Conservative councillor Ian Gillies said he has asked council officers if the businesses affected can get business rate relief.

Cllr Gillies said: "I think part of the problem is that businesses weren't told they would be closing the road and for how long. It's closed at the minute from 8pm until the next morning and it's really hurting the restaurants along there. We are in week two of three weeks and it's taking it's toll.

"I have asked for some signs to be put up and for the businesses to get business rate relief."

Tony Clarke, head of transport at City of York Council, said: “The A59/A1237 roundabout upgrade and the new Park&Ride site at Poppleton Bar is the largest transport infrastructure investment in York since the outer ring road was built in the 80s.

"Throughout the construction period, which started last May, we have worked hard with businesses and residents to deliver the scheme with the minimum amount of disruption.

“However, due to the scale of these improvement works some disruption is unfortunately unavoidable, particularly as the scheme comes to the end and the roads are being surfaced. We are doing everything reasonably possible to help businesses during the short time the most disruptive works are taking place overnight, and we are currently discussing what options are available with businesses direct.

“Access is available to all businesses in the area throughout the works but at times diversion routes may have to be followed. York’s P&Rs attract over 4 million passenger journeys every year and the introduction of the new Poppleton P&R is sure to attract even more visitors and residents to use the businesses in the area when it opens in June.”