Bus gate not main reason for drop in trade, says Cambridge music shop owner
Businesses have reported a drop in footfall since the bus gate came in
A music shop owner in Cambridge says the Mill Road bus gate is not the only reason why businesses there may be struggling to stay afloat.
Since most vehicles were banned from crossing the bridge last year, more than £1 million worth of fines have been issued to drivers.
Many businesses we've heard from have reported a drop in customers since the travel restrictions were brought in, leading some to worry for their future.
"There is a trend for sales to be down across the country in general," Andy Powell, owner of Relevant Records on Mill Road, said.
"I don't think it can predominantly be blamed on Mill Road bridge being closed."
Bus gate impact
Andy - who's been at Relevant Records for 12 years - said he has not seen a dip in trade because of the bus gate, mainly because customers travel in from the other end of Mill Road.
He said most customers tend to not drive in and instead walk or cycle.
"I can see why they've put it in because they want to reduce the amount of traffic going down Mill Road," Andy said.
"Whether that's a good thing or not, I don't know, but it hasn't affected us as a business.
"In fact, it's quite nice not to have standing traffic kicking out fumes outside your shop."
Sales increase
The Mill Road Traders Association (MRTA) - which represents businesses along the road - found nearly 57% of firms saw a decline in performance with 62% seeing fewer customers.
Its survey - dated this year - also found more than half of businesses said customer access was the most important factor in helping business thrive.
Andy said he's managed to keep ticking over thanks to loyal customers, and that generally, "record sales are increasing".
Dadhi Chudali, a postmaster at Romsey Town post office on Mill Road, said the area "is supposed to be a high street but now it feels like a village."
Andy feels differently.
"I think it probably is still thriving to be honest; you don't see many empty shop units on Mill Road," he added.
A spokesperson for Cambridgeshire County Council said the authority wants Mill Road "to be an enjoyable, safe place to visit and to encourage more people to come into the area."