WITH just three weeks to go until builders begin work on the multi-million pound redevelopment of Sainsbury’s, nearby shop owners are reminding customers: “We’re still open for business.”

WITH just three weeks to go until builders begin work on the multi-million pound redevelopment of Sainsbury’s, nearby shop owners are reminding customers: “We’re still open for business.”

And they will be throughout the construction, despite their concerns about being forgotten by customers and Welwyn Hatfield Council.

Traders on Church Road and Wigmores South in WGC welcome the redevelopment as a great thing for the area, but are very worried about the interim period while work takes place.

Hoardings are set to be put up around the entire site and business owners claim to have been kept in the dark about the final details.

Welwyn Hatfield Council’s town centre manager Nicola Kane said: “The council is working closely with Sainsbury’s to ensure businesses are supported throughout the building process.

“This may include hoarding features such as story boards, and other initiatives to encourage increased footfall to the south side of WGC.”

In a letter to traders project manager Paul Tyler said: “Sainsbury’s is keen to ensure this exciting redevelopment programme is carried out in a way that is sensitive to neighbouring traders and that it makes the area an attractive place to shop and visit.

“We want to achieve this through working with our neighbours and carrying out the programme in liaison with the local community.”