Southall Traders Make Roadworks Plea

Affinity Water digging up Broadway at during one of busiest periods

Local businesses say the latest disruption follows a pattern they have endured for years

May 28, 2026

Traders and business owners along Southall Broadway have issued a strong warning about the impact of major roadworks by Affinity Water scheduled to begin on 15 June and continue for approximately fourteen weeks.

They say the timing could not be worse, falling once again during one of the busiest trading periods of the year and threatening the financial stability of many already-pressured independent businesses.

Local shopkeepers describe deep frustration and anger at what they see as a pattern of disruption that Southall has been forced to endure for years. They argue that prolonged infrastructure works are repeatedly scheduled during peak commercial seasons, with little consideration for the economic consequences. Many say the area has begun to feel like a permanent construction zone, with businesses and residents expected to absorb the fallout without meaningful consultation or support.

Traders fear that customer access will be significantly reduced, leading to a drop in footfall at a time when they rely heavily on seasonal activity to remain viable. They also anticipate severe traffic congestion and parking difficulties, which they believe will deter visitors and make everyday operations more challenging. Deliveries are likely to be disrupted, and the loss of passing trade is expected to hit small shops particularly hard. For many, the uncertainty surrounding the works adds yet another layer of pressure at a moment when rising costs and reduced consumer spending are already making trading conditions difficult.

A number of businesses are now organising formal objections and petitions calling for the works to be postponed to a less damaging period. They say they would welcome the opportunity for their concerns to be highlighted publicly, not only to reflect the immediate impact on livelihoods but also to draw attention to the broader question of how essential infrastructure improvements can be planned in a way that does not undermine the economic vitality of Southall Broadway.

The works form part of Affinity Water’s ongoing programme to upgrade ageing water mains across the region. As the largest water-only supplier in the UK, the company provides drinking water to around 3.8 million people across north-west London, Hertfordshire and parts of the Home Counties. Unlike Thames Water, which manages both water and wastewater, Affinity Water is responsible solely for the clean-water network, including the maintenance of pipes, pumping stations and treatment works.

The company has been asked to comment on the concerns raised by Southall traders.