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A FISH-and-chip shop owner has called for compensation after engineering work which he says has caused a major drop in takings was extended for a second time.

ɫ�˸� Electricity is carrying out repairs to a substation, which has meant the closure of Mont de Gouray and the introduction of a signposted diversion to exit Gorey village.

Jon de Gruchy, of Entwhistles fish-and-chip shop, last month said there had been a decline in through traffic as a result of the works, with his takings at least 20% down.

Similar concerns were raised by the respective owners of the nearby Smile laundry business and the Gorey Fruit Shop – who explained that public confusion over whether the village was closed had meant fewer customers.

The work, which had already been extended until the end of April, is now expected to last until the middle of May.

Commenting on the extension of the repairs, Mr de Gruchy said that “there is a case for compensation”.

“If I was a builder I would be penalised for not getting a job finished in time.

“My frustration is that they don’t seem to understand the impact on businesses.”

JE’s chief operating officer Mark Preece said: “While carrying out the initial building works to the substation – which is sited near the junction of Mont de Gouray and Mont Gabard – it became clear that it required greater repairs than initially expected.

“We quickly engaged a structural engineer and, alongside our electrical engineers, we have drawn up plans to maintain the safety and integrity of the substation building, neighbouring properties and surrounding infrastructure.”

He added: “The safety of our employees and the public is our number one priority whilst we complete this essential work, which will help future-proof Gorey’s electricity supply.

“Our engineering and customer teams have been on the ground in Gorey, updating business owners on the works and the vast majority are supportive and understanding.

“While we’re here undertaking this essential work, we’d like to reassure Islanders that Gorey Village remains open – vehicle access into Gorey Village is unaffected, and there is a clearly signposted diversion to exit the village.”