An independent business is suing a industry giant over claims it is responsible for about £4,000 losses.

Redbourn’s Weyman Limited, on the High Street, is taking Affinity Water to court after temporary traffic lights were erected outside the shop for five days in April 2017 with “no work carried out”.

Director Brian Weyman says the lights blocked parking spaces, meaning people could not visit the store by car - and it would have been dangerous for people to stop among the three-way lights system.

Brian said a lot of customers travel by car to visit the shop, and the “badly managed” works amounted to £3,805.48 of lost profits.

That breaks down to around £1,500 at peak time on the Friday and between £200-£700 each day for the rest of the week.

He said the figure was calculated by looking at takings the previous weeks, unhindered by roadworks, and comparing the totals.

Brain said he has been demanding compensation ever since, adding: “They gave us a runaround for six or seven months, and I told them right from the start that I would take it to court if they don’t pay up.

“Anybody that loses £4,000 is losing business and it doesn’t go without being noticed. We have bills to pay.”

The claim has been lodged and if Affinity Water do not agree, it will go to Watford County Court.

An Affinity Water spokesperson said: “We are sorry for any inconvenience caused by mains renewals work carried out on the High Street, Redbourn.

“These works were essential so we can continue to provide a reliable water supply to our customers for many years to come and minimise any unplanned disruptions. If a non-household customer is affected by our works, they will need to contact their water retailer regarding this.”

She said Affinity was not yet aware of any legal proceedings.