Traders in parts of Oxford's Temple Cowley shopping district say their businesses are struggling to survive because of roadworks in the area.

Shopkeepers Ian Parmee, Mark Smith and Tak Lau say they have lost trade because of roadworks in the Cowley Road area

Roadworks in Between Towns Road have caused trade along Hollow Way to drop by as much as two-thirds, according to some shop owners.

The roadworks have meant traffic no longer passes through Hollow Way, which is home to a number of small businesses.

Although the road closure ends on April 1 - a week later than scheduled - roadworks in Hollow Way which were left unfinished last year, will begin again the following week.

Ian Parmee, owner of the New Roots pet shop, said: "Business has dropped by two-thirds. In the rush hour, you couldn't cross the road for traffic, but now you won't see a car at all - and we rely on passing trade.

"It took me half an hour to drive to Templars Square, when it used to take five minutes - if that."

Alan Chamberlain, manager of Smith and Lowe's DIY store, said: "Just today I had half the business I normally have. Everyone tries to avoid the road if they can, to avoid the diversions."

Younus Ali, owner of Hollow Way Autoparts, said: "With the roadworks last year, we were spending most of the time twiddling our thumbs. I just don't know how many customers we've lost."

Andrew Vidovic, an assistant engineer at Oxfordshire County Council, said: "Hollow Way will be clear of roadworks by April 15.

"After this, we will not have to do any work at the Between Towns junction for a very long time.

"We have not done anything to prevent customers from getting to those shops."