Shopkeepers in Narberth are calling for a detailed project timetable of essential roadworks which are being planned for the town next month.

Members of the chamber of trade are making the request because they fear re-surfacing work on the three main roads which form the one-way system, will have a downturn effect on business.

They hope the timetable of work for High Street, St. James Street, Spring Gardens and Moorfield Road to Coxhill entrance will help minimise disruptions.

"Whilst the chamber appreciates both the necessity of the roadworks to bring the town's roadways up to standard by Pembrokeshire County Council and that there is no particular 'good time' to carry out the work, members are concerned with the impact that the work will have on the town," said secretary Gordon Barry.

"It is further tolerable that the work has been planned to be carried out during, at least, part of the local school's half-term holiday in order to try an minimise disruptions," he continued "However, understanding the full impact on the town needs to be implicit by everyone concerned with the works," he stated.

"Starting with the road resurfacing work between Narberth Bridge and Market Square from February 7 and the High Street, starting on February 12 (remembering that Valentine's Day is on the 14th - one of the busiest shopping days of the month), will require information being disseminated to householders and businesses within the town to allow them to make appropriate arrangements. "However, being able to provide our visitors and customers to the town with detailed information as to the likely problems of visiting Narberth will be invaluable and help to continue to give our image as a friendly town."

To try and alleviate part of the parking problems which will arise, the chamber has again arranged with the primary school that the playground is made available for car parking during the school holidays.

Added Mr. Barry: "The chamber would like to impress on both Pembrokeshire County Council and their contractor, Griffiths Construction, the importance of providing detailed project timetable information to not only the people of Narberth, but their customers and visitors."   Plans shown at meeting   At a meeting called by County Councillor Wynne Evans at Narberth Fire Station, plans were shown of the intended works.

In attendance were representatives of the fire service, police, chamber of trade and town council, while also present were officials from the county council, and the contractors.

"Concern was expressed  about fire staff trying to access the fire station to attend emergency call- outs," explained Clr. Evans.

"However, a process was agreed as to how this could be achieved without adding any extra time for officers to reach the station."

Work will commence at 8 am on Monday, February 12, which coincides with school holidays. "I felt this was the best time, as these dates coincide with half-term week," continued Clr. Evans.

As a result, the primary school playground at the Town Moor will be available for extra parking and there will be no buses for the pupils attending Whitland and Crymych schools.

"I can assure you it will be hell for a few days, but the end result will be worth it in the end," said Clr. Evans.

All shopkeepers are being asked to rearrange deliveries for the days the work will be taking place, while Water Street is being suggested as a possible drop-off zone for essential daily deliveries. There will be designated  crossing points for pedestrians in all the streets affected.

Work will then commence in St. James Street where two-way traffic will be put into operation. All those affected will receive  letters and illegal parking violations will be in place.       "Again I ask you all please to bear with us; everything possible is being done to minimise  problems," concluded Clr. Evans.