A BUSINESSMAN is to send a bill to Herefordshire Council after roadworks cut off his company during a busy week for local tourism.

Graham Howells, 30, who runs Wyedean Canoe and Adventure Centre Ltd and the Royal Lodge Hotel in Symonds Yat East, said the decision to close the B4229, between Goodrich and Kerne Bridge, for two days last week had a huge impact on trade.

He is now seeking legal advice and plans to bill the local authority on behalf of the local businesses affected.

He said: “With the sun shining and thousands of tourists visiting the area the impact was huge. Despite objections from many businesses and residents the work still took place.”

Mr Howells believes Herefordshire Council should have put road signs in place to indicate that businesses were still open.

“I put somebody out there and they counted 120-plus cars in two hours that turned round and drove away,” he added.

He said excuses that work had to be done to avoid disrupting school bus routes were null and void as works were only carried out between 9am and 3pm.

“Here in Symonds Yat East alone we employ up to 100 people from the local area,” he said.

“This huge disregard from the decision-makers will cost the businesses lots of money.

“Figures will be collected from the businesses concerned and a bill will be sent to the council prior to legal action.”

In a statement, Herefordshire Council — on behalf of Balfour Beatty Living Places (BBLP) — said: “Proposals were communicated in advance with the relevant parish council members and ward members.

“Following feedback, BBLP agreed to restricted working hours to support local business traffic and carried out the work during school holidays to minimise school traffic disruption.

“BBLP acknowledges the impact on road users but appreciates the patience shown.”