A NEWSAGENT says his business is being affected by roadworks outside his shop.

Durham County Council is spending £100,000 on a traffic improvement scheme in Ferryhill Station.

The work involves installing a roundabout near the Eldon Arms pub junction and enhancement works including new pavements and safety railings.

But Robert Clark, of Mainsforth News, claims he has not been informed as to how long the work will take and his takings are significantly reduced.

A council spokesman said the work was about half-way through and on schedule. Work outside the newsagent was due to be completed in a few days.

He said: "We sent everyone in the area a consultation letter which did tell them the estimated time of the work. We also had a consultation meeting in the Eldon Arms pub during which the plans were on show and people had the chance to make comments."

He said: "We have erected signs on each of the three phases of the junction telling traffic to keep access to the shop clear and also saying the newsagent is open."