Businesses in Keynsham fear that major utilities work in the town is keeping away potential customers and could result in force some firms to close.
Takings are already massively down for some retailers in the town centre, according to Keynsham Chamber of Commerce, which says visitors may think the town has “shut up shop” while the work continues. 
As a result, and Bath & North East Somerset Council have joined forces to spread the word that the town is open for business.
Although a one-way system is in place to accommodate the work by Wales & West Utilities, the chamber and council say the town is perfectly accessible and car parking spaces are plentiful.
The work is scheduled to last until 14 March.
Lynn Young, chair of Keynsham Chamber of Commerce and proprietor of Perfect Fit on Temple Street, said, “I’m genuinely afraid that some businesses will close down if these trading conditions continue.
“The feedback I’ve received is that many businesses up and down the High Street and Temple Street have been hit hard in the first few days of the utility work. Takings are down massively. This is simply down to long-standing customers thinking Keynsham has shut up shop.
“The message that we need to get out is that buses and cars can still get to Keynsham. There are spaces to park your cars and do your shopping, including at the Civic Centre car park where people are still not sure whether they can park or not. Your local shops need your support.”
The council has instructed Wales and West to provide five Open for Business signs at strategic locations in and around town, ensuring construction deliveries at its £34m town centre regeneration project are made at times that minimise disruption. It is also using its communication channels to help spread the word.
Council leader Paul Crossley said, “We are helping traders as much as we can to keep Keynsham alive and kicking during the Wales and West Utilities road works.
“Free parking is available for two hours at The Labbott North car park; free 30 minute spaces are available at Ashton Way and the Civic Centre car park behind the redevelopment if now open for business.
“We welcome any other ideas about how to promote Keynsham as a shopping destination during this difficult time for traders.”
Anyone with ideas can contact the Council via regen_keynsham@bathnes.gov.uk or via Twitter @bathnes
