STRUGGLING Gants Hill business owners are keeping their fingers crossed the end of 14-month long roadworks will lead to a turn around in fortunes.

THE traffic lights at Gants Hill roundabout are set to be switched on today as 14-month long roadworks come to an end.

The multi-million pound Transport for London (TfL) roundabout works have included the creation of new pedestrian crossings and walkways and spill-out areas outside businesses.

Traffic lights positioned at every junction off the roundabout will be turned on today as part of a revamp of how traffic using the roundabout is handled.

A spokesman for TfL said the phasing of the lights had been worked on, and any further tweaks needed once they are in use would be made if necessary.

Meanwhile business owners in the area say they hope the revamp will boost trade, which has suffered in the face of months of disruption.

Ranu Jagan, manager of Gants Hill Super Foods, Woodford Avenue, said: “When they diverted the buses, all our customers went to other places so we’ve lost a lot of business. We’re really struggling.”

He added: “We’re hoping the end of the roadworks will bring people back to Gants Hill.”