“Businesses in town are doing it tough, with the road works and the economy,” he said.

“If we can just get some decent rain and the cockies can start spending again, we’ll see a change.”

Mr Ritchie said the conditions created by the road works are hard but there would never be a ‘right’ time to do them, and he is eagerly anticipating the end result. In fact he thinks the works are timely given the problems with drainage pipes and soil contamination that have been uncovered. The extensive drainage works undertaken will address the flooding problems that have afflicted businesses on the western side of Grey St in the past.

“The electricity and drainage works had to be done,” he said.

“They’re doing a beautification over the top and we’ve got a new main street.”

In the meantime, however, local businesses are suffering and Mr Ritchie urges shoppers to come to their aid.

“It would be great if locals can go and support the shops, even if it means walking a little distance.

“The council workers are doing a good job in difficult circumstances and they also live here and spend money here. They’re locals too, so it would be good to see people giving them a pat on the back and complimenting them on their effort.

“The project looks like it is all going to come together in the projected time frame, and I think it will be great when it’s finished.”