PENSIONERS are battling the closure of Upham’s last shop as the owner claims controversial roadworks have driven him out of business.

Vulnerable elderly residents will be forced to travel miles for pensions, newspapers and groceries when Lower Upham Shop and Post Office closes on May 17.

Owner Gary Dhatt says he has lost thousands of pounds in trade after Hampshire County Council installed a traffic island nearby, adjusting parking spaces outside.

Tony Payton, 79, of Hoyles Close, visits the small shop every day and said he would be “completely isolated” without it.

“I’ve got cancer and I’ve got difficulty walking because I have a really bad leg,” he said. “I’ve had to pack up driving, so I would be really, really stuck.

“The nearest shop round would be Bishop’s Waltham or Fair Oak, which is what, three or four miles away?”

Hampshire Chronicle:

Mr Dhatt said trade has dropped by up to £250 a day since the island was installed last year.

"They've made it impossible for us to make any money,” he said. “The council has tried to block us every step of the way.

“I can’t afford it anymore.”

The crossing was fitted, despite residents’ protests, to improve safety for schoolchildren using a nearby bus stop. Almost 400 people signed a petition against the changes.

County councillor Rob Humby said the size of parking provision was “exactly the same” after the roadworks and expected they would help trade.

Mr Dhatt was offered grants to help sustain his business, he added.

The shop could be saved if Winchester City Council makes it a community asset, blocking its sale for six months so local groups can prepare takeover bids.

In a recent survey, 77 per cent of villagers listed the shop as an “essential characteristic” of Upham.

Ann Judd, chairman of Upham Parish Council, said: “It’s hugely important for people in the village because it’s the only shop we’ve got. We want to keep it open.”

The city council is due to decide by April 30.