TRADERS say roadworks to create a new cycle path have hit them in their pockets.

With the work in Wivenhoe set to continue until spring, their councillor has stepped in to battle for compensation for them and has urged the community to show their support.

Julie Young, who represents Wivenhoe on Essex County Council, said: "A lot of people feel the closure is detrimental to businesses. They have told me takings are down.

"I have made enquries with Essex County Council as to whether there is any compensation for businesses and that has gone off this week.

"What I hope for is to encourage people in Wivenhoe and beyond to support the businesses throughout what will be a very difficult three months for them.

"This time of year it is good to promote small businesses in localities - it is a case of use them or lose them."

The work started last month and an 800-metre stretch of Colchester Road, Wivenhoe, is shut round the clock between Boundary Road and Vine Drive.

Traffic from the A133 to Wivenhoe is being diverted via Alresford.

The cycle path will link the town to Essex University.

Mrs Young added: "The Colchester Road will be closed until December 18, then it will re-close on January 4 and that work is scheduled for about three months.

"It is a long period for there to be disruption for people coming in and out of Wivenhoe.

"A lot of traffic is going in and out of Elmstead Road."

Chris Thompson, who runs Fleur Parfait Florists in Vine Parade, said: "It is not an ideal time for me. I have three things to keep me going for the whole year - Christmas, Valentine's Day and Mother's Day."

Mrs Thompson said she would need to wait until after Christmas to assess any impact on her takings.

James Patrick, the licensee at the Flag pub, in Colchester Road, has said the work is going impact on his business too.

An Essex County Council spokesperson said: “All claims for compensation are considered on their individual merits.”