A FLORIST from a bustling Ipswich shopping parade today accused officials of a lack of forethought after the road was closed - just as his shop prepares for its busiest time of the year.

A FLORIST from a bustling Ipswich shopping parade today accused officials of a lack of forethought after the road was closed - just as his shop prepares for its busiest time of the year.

With Valentine's Day fast approaching, Roy Bacon - owner of Ipswich Murals in Queen's Way - described the timing of the work by Ipswich Borough Council as “very annoying”.

And he also spoke out on behalf of the other traders up and down the road who are facing up to a severe dip in takings, despite it being business as usual.

He said: “It's hampering all the businesses up here at the moment.

“Ours is particularly badly hit because of Valentine's Day coming up. We have had no interest at all up to now - people are just not coming in.

“None of the traders are very happy about it and the noise is horrendous. At one end of the road, there are signs which say 'Queen's Way closed' even though the shops are open. You don't do things like this.

“The planners should really think about this a little more. They should come and see us first.”

The work in Queen's Way will see new crossings, paths and improvements to the road.

But Mr Bacon, who urged shoppers to return to the parade, said: “Most people think it's unnecessary and a waste of money.

“The vandalism has gone but now we have the upheaval.”

An Ipswich Borough Council spokesman said: “We have kept businesses in the community fully informed and signs are in place telling everyone that it is business as usual in Queen's Way.

“This scheme is designed to make the area better for everyone and we are pleased to say people have been very supportive, but we are sorry this shopkeeper is upset by the issue.”

Have you been affected by the works? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or send us an e-mail to eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk