A Somerset diner has reported losing three-quarters of its income after major road expansion works left it less accessible. The Mattia Diner, located near Sparkford, used to have direct access from the A303, a key road running through the south of Somerset. However, the recent expansion of the road has seen the diner pushed further back, with access now only possible via a nearby roundabout.
The diner’s owner, Andrea Mattia, explained that the changes had significantly affected the business. “I’ve lost the passing trade unless anyone is specifically looking for us,” she said. Since the A303 expansion, the diner’s foot traffic has dwindled, as it no longer benefits from the direct slip-road that once brought in customers from the main road.
Despite the challenges, Mattia remains hopeful that the situation will improve. “Once the signage is up and the roadworks are finished, it should be easier for people to find the diner than it was before,” she added optimistically.
National Highways, responsible for the roadworks, acknowledged the disruption caused to local businesses. A spokesperson stated, “We understand the impact these works have on nearby businesses and strive to minimize disruptions wherever possible. We worked with Mattia Diner on signage plans, and once the project is complete, brown signs will direct road users to the diner at no additional cost to the restaurant.”
In a similar case, a bakery located a few hundred metres away faced the same issues following roadworks last year. Both businesses hope the new signage will help restore some of the lost trade.
