The temporary closure of Holyhead port due to storm damage is impacting local hotels and takeaways, leading to significant financial losses.
Holyhead: The recent storm really did a number on the Port of Holyhead, and now local businesses are feeling the pinch. A hotel owner mentioned losing around £14,700 from canceled bookings. Ouch!
One local councillor called the situation “devastating,” but there’s a glimmer of hope with Stena Line announcing a reopening date. Fingers crossed!
Winds over 93mph hit North Wales around December 7, damaging the Terminal 3 berth. This has put a halt to ferry crossings from that area, which is a big deal for local trade. Stena Line hopes to get things back on track by January 16.
Businesses like Mete’s Smash Burger are seeing fewer customers since the ferries stopped running. The owner, Erdinc, said they usually get a lot of Irish and American visitors, but now they’re down about 25%. That’s tough!
Adriana and Ahmet, who run the Holly Molly Cafe, are also feeling the impact. They rely on passing trade, and it’s definitely taken a hit. They’re hoping the port repairs will be done in time for the cruise ships coming in this spring.
Claudia, who owns The Boathouse Hotel, is facing her own challenges. She’s lost 147 bookings and is worried about the future. The storm was no joke; even her hotel roof took a beating!
She mentioned that her dad, at 79, has never seen waves like that. On top of everything, she’s dealing with rising costs from National Insurance and minimum wage changes. It’s a lot to juggle!
But Claudia is trying to stay positive. Her restaurant and bar help bring in some extra cash, and she’s planning fun events like music nights and a Mad Hatter’s tea party to boost business.
Cllr Keith Roberts is also concerned about the drop in trade. With fewer ferry passengers and haulage drivers around, local shops are feeling the squeeze. He’s noticed the supermarkets are quieter too.
Still, he’s relieved about the January 16 date for repairs. It’s a step in the right direction, and he’s hopeful things will improve soon.
Another councillor, Trefor Lloyd Hughes, is keeping an eye on the overall timeline for getting the port back to normal. He’s optimistic but knows there’s still work to be done.
Meanwhile, a business in Valley, near Holyhead, has reported fewer Irish customers, but overall, they’re not feeling the same impact. It’s a mixed bag for sure!
