HOLMFIRTH traders say roadworks in the town centre are driving customers away.

Business owners in Hollowgate are angry about work being done by Kirklees Council's highways department.

They say the work is not being done fast enough and is deterring people from using the narrow street.

Raised plateaux are being installed at either end of the street, to bring parts of the road level with the kerb.

This will allow elderly and disabled people to cross more easily.

The footpath is also being widened on one side of the road, where a wall is being replaced with railings, to give people views of the river.

The work means about five parking spaces on Hollowgate will be lost.

Steve Briddon, who works at Hollowgate motor parts firm Wheelsbrook Services, said: "Workmen turned up and started work on September 8, but only did half a job.

"They have been there two weeks.

"The road is open, but they have taken the parking spaces. They don't seem to understand how trade is going to be affected.

"If it was worthwhile we wouldn't mind. But they are putting in raised areas and taking a massive section of wall - just so people can overlook a small section of river."

Mr Briddon said other businesses in Hollowgate were also unhappy.

The work had initially been planned for April, but maintenance of gas mains took priority.

Then Hollowgate traders objected to the plans and the matter had to be referred to Kirklees Council's Cabinet.

Highways officer Neil Conway, who is in charge of the works, said the Cabinet allowed work to continue because improving access for the disabled strengthens the council's bid for a £1m grant to improve Holmfirth's facilities.

Mr Conway added that there were good reasons for the delays in work getting done.

He said: "In April, people on Hollowgate complained that they were losing parking, so the matter went to the Cabinet.

"Then the road was to close on September 8 and 9 while speed plateaux were put in.

"I was asked by traders to change this, because there was a market day. So work was rescheduled and the road closed for September 14 and 15.

"The roadworks are now complete. I know we have taken longer than planned but any construction can be delayed.

"The only work outstanding is to put railings in and finish a flagged area. We hope to finish in a week or two," he added.