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Imlay Street traders have made a plea to the community to persevere and not desert them as the main street's $1.3 million facelift gets underway.
Eden newsagent, Lynn Slater, and IGA Eden store owner, Con Castrissios, said winter was traditionally a quiet time of the year and they could not afford to lose customers while the work was being carried out.
"If we lose our customers now we'll be in real trouble," Ms Slater said.
Ms Slater and Mr Castrissios said that while they supported the long-awaited beautification program, they had been left out of pocket after the work started last week.
Many shoppers had been deterred by the partial street closure and, coupled with the winter weather, had deserted businesses, they said.
"There has been a huge downturn in trade," Mr Castrissios said.
Ms Slater said the traders met with representatives from the council and the construction company, Guideline South Coast, last Thursday morning and after they expressed their concerns about the road closures, changes were made to free up vehicle and pedestrian traffic.
"The most important thing is that they listened to our concerns and acted quickly," Ms Slater said.
Many people in Imlay Street were unaware of the planned work - which includes more trees, futuristic shelters, upgraded street furniture and new paving - saying they thought the work marked the start of the demolition of the Hotel Australasia.
Bega Valley Shire Council group manger transport and utilities, Wayne Sartori, said the meeting with the contractor was used as a great opportunity for local residents and business owners to get the rundown on the works planned for the week ahead.
“These regular weekly meetings offer a chance for the community to follow the CBD upgrade project, and it enables the contractor and council to hear first-hand any community concerns," Mr sartori said.
“Among the items discussed was a worry that the works on Imlay Street may give the impression to visitors that some businesses are closed.
“Anyone planning a visit to Eden can be assured that the commercial zone is open for business, parking is available and we are all looking forward to seeing the improvements when the project is completed.
"Planned completion is November this year,” he said.
Councillor Sharon Tapscott said there would be ongoing disruption for about 80 days.