Traders in Ashford's Lower High Street say they are losing business because of fencing that has blocked off one side of the street from the other.

The entire stretch of the high street has been divided for up to four weeks as improvement works are carried out on the cobble stones.

To get to the other side of the fence, shoppers face a lengthy walk around the enclosure - and it is putting many off.

Shen Sen from Cafe Express said: "They've made it impossible for me to put my tables and chairs out and people who are the other side of the wall can't easily get over here because they have to walk all the way down the High Street and back up again.

“Business is dead because they can't get through. I'm still having to pay for my license and my insurance but I can't put the tables and chairs out. They're saying it's going to be like this for four weeks - I might as well lock up and go home.

He added: "I don't understand why they can't do it in sections. Just close off the bit you're working on."

KCC gave Ashford council notice on May 24 and businesses and market stallholders were informed on May 28 - just nine days before the work was due to begin.

During the weeks the work is expected to take, market stalls will be pitched in locations in Middle Row, near the bandstand area, in Bank Street and in North Street.

What do you think? Email kentishexpress@thekmgroup.co.uk or leave a comment below.