Businesses in Fakenham have blasted the number of roadworks taking place across town - revealing they are having a crippling impact on trade. 

Shop owners have voiced their frustration over a number of closures, including Wells Road, which has been shut since October 24 and is not expected to reopen until December 9. 

Meanwhile, Norwich Road was shut for three days last week and Gogg's Mill Road was also closed earlier this month.

The issue was highlighted at November’s full town council meeting, where mayor Angela Glynn said traders including Venetia Strangwayes-Booth - owner of Venetia’s Yarn Shop - had highlighted their concerns.

Norfolk County Council (NCC) acknowledged recent projects had caused disruption, but insisted efforts had been made to "minimise impacts". 

Detailing her own experience, Ms Strangwayes-Booth said: "I had a couple from Devon who came to visit me, telling me they spent hours just trying to get into the town.

Eastern Daily Press: Owner of Venetia's Yarn Shop on Norwich Street in Fakenham, Venetia Strangwayes-Booth

"I know they still came to see me, but think of all the other trade they would have done in the town.

“It is a worrying time right now. We are all worried about the cost of living crisis and the roadworks are just one more thing.

“I am looking to get the chamber of trade back up and running, as things will not get better without it.” 

Nigel Maidstone, who runs Special Moments in Miller’s Walk, claimed the widespread disruption was killing business.

Eastern Daily Press: Nigel Maidstone, who has owned his business Special Moments in Fakenham since 1992

"I think they are trying to kill Fakenham off with all these roadworks," he said. "They seem to be blocking just about every way to get in.

"You want it [the town] to be as open as it can right now because of Christmas shopping."

Fay Dewing, owner of Sew Sweet, added: "It is quiet, but is it because of what is going on in the world, or is it the roadworks? 

Eastern Daily Press: Fay Dewing, owner of Sew Sweet in Fakenham, with the old-fashioned style jars of sweet favourites

"I also think it is bad timing - a lousy combination of roadworks and the increased pressure. It seems to be a bit of everything at the moment."

A spokesman for NCC said: "While it is challenging for road and pavement improvements by utility companies to be carried out without disruption, we seek to coordinate roadworks and work with utility companies to minimise such impacts.

"We’ve been regularly monitoring the pavement resurfacing along Wells Road and ensuring diversion routes are clearly signed."