Traders are concerned over plans to shut Hamlet Court Road bridge in Westcliff for three months to carry out £1.9m of repair works.
Vital work to strengthen the bridge gets under way next week but motorists and retailers have been warned of the three-month closure between January and April next year.
Southend Council admitted the work will cause major delays, but emphasised it was vital the work was done to ensure the bridge can accommodate lorries with bigger loads.
However, Steve Field, of Fields menswear in Hamlet Court Road, said: "We realised the bridge would have to be closed for a time when the work was carried out, but we did not realise it would be for three months.
"It is worrying and is going to have an effect on our trade as many motorists come that way."
A Government grant for the work was given to the council last year and a preliminary survey has already been carried out.
Brian Kelly, council cabinet member for transport, said: "The construction programme has been carefully planned. Disruption to road users and pedestrians will be kept to a minimum.
"However, delays and restrictions are unavoidable during the construction period."
Published Tuesday August 10, 2004
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