Salisbury Businesses Share Insights on Fisherton Street Improvements
Local business owners discuss the impact of recent changes on Fisherton Street
Salisbury, UK, Fisherton Street, Businesses, Traffic, Improvements
Salisbury: The street has been through a lot lately. For over a year, Fisherton Street was one-way while they widened the pavements and added new lighting. It was a tough time for local businesses, with some losing up to half their foot traffic due to barriers and construction. But now, things are looking up.
Many shop owners are feeling optimistic. They say the street looks much nicer and that getting to the railway station is easier now. However, there’s some concern about a traffic calming measure that’s causing visibility issues for drivers.
Nigel McNally, who runs Baileys Domestic Appliances, shared that his business nearly went under during the construction. Thankfully, things are picking up again, and customers are happy with the new look of the street. He mentioned that while it was a tough time, the end result is worth it.
He did express confusion over the placement of some red planters that block drivers’ views. He thinks moving them could help a lot. Joe Henry, who owns Fisherton Warehouse, echoed this sentiment, saying the street is finally open and looking good again after a messy year.
Patrick Wadge, who specializes in clocks, noted that his business wasn’t hit as hard, but he appreciates the wider pavements. He also mentioned that while the ‘pinch point’ is a bit tricky, traffic seems to be flowing better now.
Steph Beattie, who’s been at Dauwalder’s stamp shop for decades, said they lost a significant amount of business during the construction but are back to normal now. She’s glad to see the street bustling again.
Deborah Fox, who runs Fisherton Mill, praised the improvements and encouraged everyone to see the positives. She believes the changes have made the street more pleasant for walkers and is excited about future enhancements.
Even the local council is pleased with the feedback from businesses. Councillor Nick Holder mentioned that the project was supported by a large majority of local traders and that they’re waiting for a safety audit to ensure everything is up to standard.