Denis Alexander, of Dexion, and Adam Beechey, of Pedders Suspension, are concerned about proposed traffic changes. Picture: PHILLIP BIGGS
INVERMAY businesses are warning traffic changes being considered could force them to close.
Dexion's Denis Alexander is one business owner worried about the impact right-hand turn restrictions from Goderich Street to Lindsay Street could have on trade.
The Department of Infrastructure, Energy and Resources is considering timed restrictions during morning and afternoon peak-hour periods.
``It's hard enough in the current economic environment without half of your traffic flow being cut off,'' he said.
Some of the businesses estimate trade could be reduced by between 30 to 50 per cent.
They have suggested a longer green light for right-hand turns to solve the back-up issues occurring at the turning bay.
Alderman Jeremy Ball met the business owners last week and said it was a ``hot issue''.
Some of the businesses are still reeling from forced relocations after the council compulsorily acquired the land to build the Launceston flood levees.
``They said this really could be the straw that breaks the camel's back for us, this could really send some of them under,'' Alderman Ball said.
Despite Goderich Street being a state government responsibility he believed the council could still influence the outcome.
Council general manager Robert Dobrzynski said there would be consultation with them although some aldermen expressed frustration it hadn't already occurred.
