Businesses on Gervis Place— the road which will be closed for upgrades until early 2027— told the Echo they were not given sufficient notice about impending works.
From Saturday May 23, Gervis Place, from the pedestrian crossing to the junction with Westover Road, will be closed to “improve bus journeys and waiting facilities”.
Councillor Andy Martin, BCP Council Cabinet Member for Customer, Communications and Culture, said: “Upgrades to Gervis Place make it easier and safer to use buses and get around the area, especially for people with mobility needs.
“While we recognise that there is disruption, these upgrades will deliver lasting benefits for residents, businesses and visitors.
“Consideration has been given to residents and businesses throughout the planning of these works, with measures in place to minimise disruption and maintain access, including temporary delivery areas, taxi ranks and bus stops, safe and open footways, and clear ‘business as usual’ signage.
“All affected businesses and key stakeholders were notified in advance, with residents and businesses written to on 1 May 2026, and we continue to engage directly with those impacted to address concerns and keep disruption to a minimum.”
BCP council added that a public consultation on the proposed improvements showed that 72% of respondents supported the objectives of the upgrade, which included improved bus journey times and providing two-way bus movements along Old Christchurch Road.