Ludlow traders' bridge closure worry
A major route for visitors into Ludlow could be closed for months, traders warned today. And business owners say something must be done to better direct those heading to the town as Ludford Bridge is closed.
They claim that the route into the town could be closed into the start of the summer tourist season.
Others have called for people to keep supporting the town's traders as the bridge, which crosses the River Teme from the satellite village of Ludford into Lower Broad Street, remains shut into its third week after a lorry destroyed part of its wall.
The mayor Paul Draper has issued a message that "Ludlow is still open for business" and Only Fools and Horses actor John Challis has tweeted:
"Ludford Bridge closed to traffic, is badly affecting local trade. Make a special effort and support Ludlow."
Cedric Bosi, who runs the Charlton Arms Hotel on the Ludford side of the bridge, said the closure was hitting passing trade. There was no sign of repairs and he had not had any word on how long it would stay closed.
He said he was worried the closure may even stretch to the start of the summer.
"It's worrying, it could really damage business," he said. "I don't understand why the whole bridge has to be closed. It could easily be sectioned off and a weight restriction put on it. The signs on the diversion are terrible: I had people calling who had been diverted to Woofferton the other day."
He said he would be willing to get together with other businesses and contribute personally to better signage to keep people coming into the town.
Tish Dockerty, secretary of Ludlow Chamber of Commerce, said she had requested more signs saying businesses were open as usual, adding: "I think the signage needs sorting out on the entry to Ludlow.
"It doesn't say anything on the A49, but as you get down that road it just says road closed, access to businesses only. It doesn't really tell you what's going on and visitors are completely bamboozled."
She said the matter was bound to be raised at the chamber's next meeting at Ludlow Brewery on March 15.
Paul Draper, mayor of Ludlow, said: "Ludford Bridge may be closed but the other two main roads are open. The message is simple – Ludlow is open for business."
