Fears are mounting that a major road shutdown could devastate a struggling High Street in the Scottish town of Sanquhar, with traders warning the disruption may effectively “kill off” the town centre. Business owners say the planned closure will choke off vital passing traffic and leave them fighting to survive at an already difficult time.

Shopkeepers in the town have voiced alarm over a six-week closure of the A76, a key route running directly through the High Street, calling the potential fallout “catastrophic”. The road is set to be completely shut from June 1 until July 10 to allow essential stonework repairs to the historic Tolbooth Museum, a Category A-listed building dating back to the 18th century. The structure sits immediately beside the road, where the carriageway narrows significantly, prompting the council to insist a full closure is required to keep both workers and motorists safe.

While initial work from May 18 will be managed using temporary traffic lights, the more disruptive phase begins in June, when a total shutdown will come into force. During that time, drivers will be forced onto a lengthy diversion of around 50 miles using routes via Cumnock and Thornhill.

Local traders say the consequences could be severe. Many rely heavily on passing trade, and without through traffic, they expect daily losses to quickly mount.

Charles Brown, who has run C&M Brown newsagents for more than 20 years just metres from the Tolbooth, told the BBC: “The situation could be devastating.” He explained that businesses in the town are already under pressure and warned that removing the main flow of customers for weeks could push some over the edge.

He criticised the decision to close the road around the clock, suggesting alternatives such as night-time working or the use of specialist equipment could have reduced disruption. He estimates the closure could cost him hundreds of pounds each day in lost income.

Concerns are echoed by other shopkeepers along the High Street. Emma Gilchrist, who runs a nearby convenience store, warned: “The impact will extend beyond lost footfall.” She fears major supply problems as delivery lorries are forced onto the lengthy diversion route.

She highlighted the town’s demographics, noting that many residents are elderly or do not drive, meaning local shops are a lifeline. Without reliable deliveries, shelves could empty and vulnerable customers may struggle to access essentials.

Emma Gilchrist added: “While many small businesses typically rely on a summer boost after quieter winter months, that recovery now looks unlikely.” She warned that several shops have already shut in the past year, and further disruption could accelerate the decline.

Despite the backlash, a Dumfries and Galloway Council spokesperson said: “The works are unavoidable due to serious defects in the building’s stonework.” Officials stressed that steps have been taken to limit disruption, including maintaining local access and ensuring emergency services can still pass through.

The council also said signage would be installed to make clear that businesses remain open during the works, and that the timing of the closure was chosen to ensure the road reopens ahead of key summer events.

However, traders remain unconvinced, arguing that preserving a historic building should not come at the cost of the town’s economic survival.