Big freeze costs traders £2.9m

Reporter: Martyn Torr
Date online: 12/01/2010

BAD weather has cost Oldham businesses £2.9 million so far according to Greater Manchester Chamber.

Brian Sloan, head of business and economic policy at the Chamber, said: “The cost to businesses in Oldham is estimated to be £2.9 million and this will increase if the cold weather continues.

“Many workers have been unable to get to work due to school closures and child-care issues, or have been delayed due to reduced public transport services and hazardous driving conditions.

“Some employers have had to deal with issues caused by the sub-zero temperatures, such as heating problems, reduced mail and delivery services and lack of footfall.

“With the cold weather forecast to continue, communication needs to be maintained between employers and their workers to avoid unnecessary journeys and to discuss possible alternative working arrangements, such as working from a different base or working from home.”