Highways England will not compensate pub ‘closed by roadworks’
The Halfway House, in Two Waters Foot, near the southern edge of Bodmin Moor, in Cornwall, has been at the heart of roadworks on the A38 that have been ongoing since January.
Last week (10 April), the owners posted a note on Facebook saying the freehouse would be closed until further notice “due to the adverse effect of the roadworks”.
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Last year, The Morning Advertiser ran a campaign, alongside sister publication Convenience Store, to give a voice to businesses directly impacted by roadworks. If your pub has been affected by roadworks, get in touch with us.
The post, from the pub’s page, continued: “I will post any updates as and when I have them. Thank you to everyone who has supported us over the past six years. Hopefully I will have some more positive news soon.”
The pub has subsequently received more than 100 messages of commiseration and outrage at the decision.
Highways England has since restated it position that it is “under no obligation” to compensate businesses, unless there has been negligence or breach of duty on the part of Highways England.
Julian Strong, south-west asset delivery manager for Highways England added that Highways England had “done everything we can” to minimise disruption.
He said: “We always try to minimise the impact that essential roadworks like this have on businesses and communities.
“We have maintained access to the businesses at all times and specifically named the Halfway House on diversion route signage, and maps showing the diversions, as well as advertising businesses that have remained open throughout.”
