Businesses and locals in Andover say they’re upset and disgusted that unsightly scaffolding in the High Street is still there, two years after being erected.

The scaffolding and plastic sheeting was put up in front of Ark Hair Design and Ladbrokes in June 2022 and was due to be removed earlier this year, with work expected to be complete in July.

Despite efforts from Andover BID and Test Valley Borough Council, the scaffolding is still outside the shops with no date set for removal.

Gerald Kingsley runs The Ark Hairdressing, which is hidden behind the plastic sheeting said: “It’s really upsetting, I have had no view and I can’t see any sunshine. I thought  work was going to start in the summer and I went on holiday, but nothing’s changed. It’s been like this for two years now and the rubbish piling up in front of my window is disgusting.”

(Image: Caroline Simpson)

Callum McGuire, 25, store manager at Morrison’s Local at King Arthurs Way has been coming to Ark Hairdressers for nine years and said: “I thought the hairdressers had closed down and I got a bit upset, I had my hair cut here for my wedding. I think Gerald’s a saint for putting up with this mess, it’s so hard for him.”

Customer Calum Aylett, 18, agreed: “It’s disgusting. I saw the scaffolding going up and nothing’s been done at all.”

Structural repair work was due to be carried out to the top right-hand side of the building, followed by internal remedial works to stabilise and make the building safe. 

Friends, Stella Toms, 59 and Margaret Ellen, 69 were having coffee in the High Street opposite the scaffolding. Margaret said: “It’s an eyesore and it’s blocking off the businesses, you can’t even see what the shops are!” Stella agreed: “It’s been there a long time and it puts people off, I do feel for the businesses.”

Two months ago the head of building surveying at Entain, owner of Ladbrokes, said they 'acknowledge' the frustration of residents and that a contractor would be appointed 'within the month'.

Mick Clark, customer services manager for Ladbrokes in Andover said: “I believe they’ve had quotes, but they were too expensive. I haven’t been told what’s going on."

(Image: Caroline Simpson) Councillor, Iris Anderson from Test Valley Borough Council said that excuse wasn’t good enough: “Building materials have gone through the roof, that’s building for you, but people want answers. We’re all looking at this two years down the line and still waiting for things to be done. Andover High Street is looked upon in a negative light, but it has a thriving environment and we want that back.”