THE owner of a family business says he could lose his livelihood as a result of the Barton Farm development.

Tony Hall Motors on Andover Road North has been run by Mr Hall and his wife Christine for 20 years.

They say their business, which includes MOTs and repairs, has relied heavily on passing trade – something that will disappear entirely if civic chiefs press ahead with plans to block off Andover Road, which they intend to re-route through the new 2,000 home site.

Mr Hall, 70, who employs six people, said: “I just cannot tell what’s going to happen to us, but if people won’t drive by, they won’t find me. I get lots of people calling in and making appointments,” he said.

A spokesman for the city council said: “Cala Homes have previously discussed the changes to the Andover Road with Mr Hall, but we understand that he remains concerned about the impact on his business as he explained to the forum last night.

“Council officers and Cala Homes will be meeting with Mr Hall to examine ways to provide practical assistance and to try to ensure that the business benefits from its close proximity to the new development.”