THE closure of The Cutting at Drybrook – the main through road to Ross – is having a damaging effect on the lives of local residents and businesses.

And there's no sign of the road opening anytime soon.

Paul and Joanne Barnes recently took over the cafe at Greenway Farm Caravan Camping Park and rely heavily on passing trade in the off-season.

"The fact we aren't getting any passing trade is absolutely killing us," said Paul.

"The trouble is, when you lose customers for over a year you very rarely get them back."

Another problem the cafe has encountered is the road closure signs being so far away from the road block.

"We've had customers see the signs and turn back thinking there's no access to the caravan site."

Other local businesses such as Hale & Co have also been affected.

Read The Forester for the full story.