SHOP owners said they feel they have had “another slap in the face” after a taxi rank was moved in front of their businesses preventing customers from parking.

The rank, used by hackney drivers, was relocated 50 yards from Accrington’s Holme Street into Church Street.

MORE TOP STORIES:

The decision “originated from discussions” with Hyndburn Council and taxi drivers, Lancashire County Council said.

Co-owner of Church Street News and Food, Sarah Brankin, 51, said: “Unannounced to us the taxi rank bays had been moved in front of three very well-established businesses.

“It is literally 50 yards from where they were before.

“This is another slap in the face while Hyndburn Council is trying to get Accrington back on its feet.”

She added: “We were told it was a temporary measure, but they have since been out to turn the former taxi rank into disabled parking bays.

“Having a taxi rank on this busy road is causing gridlock. Taxis parked up are preventing our customers from pulling up.

“It has left us on the back foot.

“It is going to have a massive impact on our business.

“We will really struggle if this is to become a permanent fixture.”

Several business owners along Church Street are joining together to file their objections with the county council.

A co-led campaign between shop owners and Cllr Tony Dobson has been started to find a solution to the issue.

Cllr Dobson, who sits on Accrington Town Team, said: “There is a right rumpus in Accrington town centre.

“They have made it no parking except for taxis.

“This street has a number of businesses which rely on people being able to park outside for a few moments. There has been no consultation and I’m concerned at the lack of democracy.

“It is not good enough and we are starting a campaign to raise the profile to get this sorted.

“All of the traders are up in arms over it and I’m concerned for them.

“The manager of the taxi drivers has said it has made them worse off.

“I’m completely against it and I want it moved.”

Dwayne Lowe, area highways manager for Lancashire County Council, said: “The relocation of the taxi rank from Holme Street to Church Street originated from discussions with councillors, Hyndburn Council and the taxi operators.

“It’s important to make it clear that this is only a temporary change.

“While it’s in place, we’ll be speaking to local businesses and taxi operators to gauge their views on the new arrangement to see if it should be made permanent.”