by Paul Torpey and Dave Hunt Traders and businesses are feeling the effects of continued upheaval in Enfield Town as Christmas approaches.

Some shops in the town are blaming a lack of parking spaces for a marked decrease in visitors and till receipts.

James Duffy, store manager of Ottaker's bookshop in Church Street, said: "I'd say about 80 per cent of the reduction in our trade is down to a lack of parking. The high street's taking a real hammering at the moment."

The current chaos stems from building work and roadworks associated with the multi-million pound PalaceXchange shopping centre which this week announced the addition of Dorothy Perkins, Oasis and Caffe Nero to its line-up.

Some businesses believe that the long-term benefits of the redevelopment will outweigh this year's poor Christmas trade.

Erdal Mehmet, chairman of Enfield Trade and Business Association, has run G. Mantella jewellers in Church Street since 1982 and believes the future is bright.

"I knew this year was going to be bad but if you don't accept changes, you'll have problems," he said.

"These new shops will bring many more shoppers to Enfield and once it's finished I'm sure we'll see a boom."

The fear for some businesses is they will not survive long enough to reap the rewards of Enfield's rebirth.

F. Bendes fishmongers in Church Street usually does a brisk Christmas trade but fishmonger Dennis Harnett, 61, who has worked at the store for 12 years says trade has noticeably reduced.

"It obviously does not help with all the roadworks. Business has been pretty dire," he said "You cannot take anything for granted in any year but I'm just hoping I can hang on until next year," he added.

There was some better news for shops and shoppers alike last week with some parking spaces being spaces being made available in Genotin Road. The civic centre in Silver Street is also offering free parking at weekends.