SHOPKEEPERS say they are planning to sue Transport for London (TfL) after roadworks saw them lose an estimated £2m in trade.

Businesses along Glebe Way, Coney Hall, are being hit by a two-month long revamp of the A232.

TfL is carrying out extensive works along the dual carriageway resurfacing and laying new pavements.

More than 20 businesses believe by the time the works are completed on November 11, they will have lost an estimated £2m in takings.

They claim the works, which are costing £800,000, have taken away all their passing trade and are demanding compensation from TfL.

Traders are also furious they did not received proper notification of the works so they could inform their suppliers.

Letters were sent to shop owners on September 2, just three days before the works was due to start.

Manager of Coney Hall Designs Allan Bennett said: "I'm absolutely gutted. This is supposed to be the busiest time in the run-up to Christmas.

"If this continues I could lose up to £60,000. I'm definitely up for taking TfL to court if we have a case."

Co-op supermarket is believed to be losing up to £22,000 a week with smaller businesses down by £800.

Chinese restaurant owner Lai Pang said: "The workers could finish in half the time. I've only seen a few people working at a time. I feel I am working for nothing."

Ward councillor Anne Manning said: "This is absolute devastation for traders. There has been no thought for them.

"TfL should have had a full consultation to learn about Coney Hall and the impact these works would have on the community."

Businesses have since decided to take TfL to court and have arranged a syndicate to raise the necessary funds.

TfL acknowledges greater notification to businesses should have been given but says it had a duty to maintain the roads and is not under any obligation to give compensation.

A spokesman said: "We sympathise and are grateful for the shopkeepers' patience but these are absolutely necessary works."

TfL declined to comment on the proposed court action.