A DRIVE encouraging people to leave the car and walk to the shops instead has been launched in Studley.

Following the announcement that Studley High Street would be closed for resurfacing work over half-term (October 23 to 30), Studley in Business have started the campaign called 'Studley Is Open' to shed a positive light on what is anticipated to cause a big loss for businesses in the area.

Last week's Advertiser featured the closure on its front page and business owners predicted a 70 per cent drop in sales.

The site extends from Barley Mow Island to Crooks Lane and diversion routes are being installed but pedestrian access to the High Street will be maintained.

Studley in Business will be providing information on available parking, offers from local shops and a spreading the message to residents to leave their car at home and to use the road closure as an opportunity to walk into Studley and support local businesses.

A group spokesman said: "The High Street businesses are understandably worried about the effect of the road being closed on their trade and as a collective voice for the Studley business community, Studley in Business is keen to shed as positive a light on the matter as possible."

A Warwickshire County Council spokesman said ‘additional signage’ indicating businesses are open will be put in place and, to alleviate the loss of some street parking, there will be some additional provision between Redditch Road and Marble Alley, Monday to Saturday.

Motorist are being advised to use Pool Road car park to access the High Street shops and traffic management officers will be on site to assist with deliveries to businesses.

For more information visit Studley in Business on Facebook.