BUSINESSES in one of York’s busiest city centre streets are bracing themselves for a drop in trade as the route closes for six weeks.

Workers yesterday began the task of replacing 250m of old metal gas mains with plastic pipes along Gillygate – which is set to leave the road out of use for drivers until April.

That has left local traders concerned about how the scheme, which is being carried out by Northern Gas Networks, will hit business during the round-the-clock closure.

Caroline Byers, of the RSPCA charity shop, said: “We get no Government funding and rely heavily on donations and people shopping.

“Six whole weeks is a long time for a charity shop, let alone a normal business.”

Barry Bainbridge, of the nearby Wackers fish and chip restaurant, was also worried that the lack of traffic would cause a sharp drop in takings – forcing him to take a different approach to the search for trade.

He said: “I would imagine that if there are no buses the people won’t be able to get down.

“I don’t know how it will affect the coach park down the road as well. I have been out this morning giving the workers menus.”

Lucia Martin, of Bubbles toy shop, also echoed the business concerns. She said: “I’m not sure drivers will be able to get through to the car parks on Clarence Street and behind the Radio York building or not.

“There have been three gas leaks in the last four months, so I think they thought that the pipes have got to the end of their life. It’s not convenient, but it has got to be done.”

Clifton councillors have warned that motorists could face “absolute chaos” as they are driven to look for diversions around residential streets such as Burton Stone Lane during the Gillygate project, and are worried elderly residents may find it difficult to cross the road.

Northern Gas Networks has apologised for any inconvenience the work may cause and vowed to keep disruption to a minimum, with information about the closure being placed on warning signs and York’s electronic information boards.