Shop's £2,500 roadworks loss

A BUSINESSWOMAN today lashed out at Anglian Water claiming she lost around £2,500 of earnings because of roadworks outside her shop.

Fahriye Kuru , who owns the Quality Dry Cleaners in Norwich Road near the junction with All Saints Road, claims she has been left out of pocket since the utility giant carried out the work.

She said pedestrian access was restricted, warning signs obscured the shop and the customer parking area was inaccessible.

Anglian Water initially offered Mrs Kuru £100 to compensate her for the disturbance caused throughout March and part of April but later increased the pay out to £250 when she complained.

She has also been told she will receive compensation for the loss of earnings incurred.

Mrs Kuru said: “A lot of customers did not pick up their goods because they could not get to us.

“They were afraid to come to the shop because there was a big crane in the way most of the time. I know a few other businesses around here felt the same way.

“It was a very quiet period - most days I was just sitting watching the work going on as it blocked the whole of the shop front.

“They have just given me a fair offer of compensation and I am happy with that.”

Since the work finished, Mrs Kuru claimed she and her friend have tried to call Anglian Water at least 20 times to enquire about the claim.

A spokesman for Anglian Water said: “The business was given £250 for the disturbance they suffered. The loss adjusters have contacted the business concerned so they can assess their claim.

“I am sorry it has taken some time to go through but it is being dealt with now.

“The work that was being carried out was a very important scheme for Ipswich. It was to enhance flood protection for the properties in the area.”

n Have you lost business due to roadworks? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or email eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk