74484-36BOSSES of a family business say building work is causing chaos and could force them to close one of their branches.

John Maynard, company director of Thamesdown Tyres in Okus Road on the Okus Trading Estate, said a housing development has killed off about 80 per cent of their trade.

He believes passing customers think they have closed because the business, which was opened by his dad, Bill, 79, more than 20 years ago, is surrounded by security fencing.

He claims demolition work has left him without a phone line and that there have been problems with his power supply.

"Until the security cage is taken down we will continue to feel like we're in jail. It's like nobody knows we're here," said the 46-year-old, who now runs the business with his brother, Richard, 43.

"Our regular customers are still using us but we fear we may have to close this part of the business down if the drop in trade continues.

"Things have been made worse by not having a phone line which was cut during demolition work a couple of days ago.

"We've been told we should be re-connected over the next couple of days but at the moment we can't take any calls or credit card payments."

Although the brothers have two other branches of the business in Swindon, the lack of trade at Okus has forced Mr Maynard to close the MoT section.

The tyre replacement, exhaust fitting and wheel alignment services have been retained.

"I believe this is just the start. I think problems could escalate," he said.

Developer George Wimpey is bulldozing the area to make way for hundreds of new homes.

The plan has already forced another business to close and move elsewhere.

Noah's Ark nursery in Okus Road was reduced to rubble shortly before Christmas.

And boss Brian Hammond's dream of a new centre in Bath Road, Old Town, was shattered after a deal fell through.

No one from George Wimpy was available for comment.

Ben Payne