Ripon MP calls for review of road closure signs after businesses warn customers are being put off

Businesses affected by roadworks and temporary closures across North Yorkshire have raised concerns that unclear signage is putting customers off from visiting.

Ripon MP Sir Julian Smith has written to North Yorkshire Council urging a review of how businesses are notified about road closures and involved in decisions over signage.

The MP said some businesses had either received little advance notice of nearby works or had been negatively affected by signs which gave the impression their premises were closed, despite remaining open and accessible.

Several businesses have contacted Mr Smith to report that customers had been deterred from visiting because road closure signs did not clearly explain that access was still available.

In some cases, the closure was further along the road rather than outside the business itself, but the signage had not made this clear enough, leaving customers unsure whether they could reach their destination.

Mr Smith has now asked North Yorkshire Council to review its current communications arrangements and consider earlier engagement with businesses before signage decisions are finalised.

Commenting on the issue, Mr Smith said: “Several local businesses have contacted me with concerns about the impact of road closure signage.

“Signs must clearly indicate when businesses remain open and accessible, so customers are not discouraged from visiting.

“This is particularly important in rural areas that rely on visitor trade, where unclear signage can have a significant impact.”

The MP acknowledged the importance of road maintenance across the county, which has the largest network of rural roads in the country, but said essential works needed to be accompanied by clear communication.

He added: “I recognise that North Yorkshire has the largest network of rural roads in the country and that maintaining them is vital.

“However, those essential works should be accompanied by clear communication and sensible signage that minimises disruption to local businesses.”

Mr Smith said he hoped the council’s review would ensure the views of local businesses were taken into account before signs were put in place.

He said: “I have asked North Yorkshire Council to review its communications with businesses and ensure their views are taken into account before signage is put in place.”