TRADERS at the Docks say business is booming despite major development work – but want shoppers to remember they still need support.

The Docks has recently had its car park revamped and there are major road works taking place as part of the £7 million linkages scheme in nearby Southgate Street.

Traders have formed two groups deal with marketing and operational issues in a bid to promote the Docks more.

Gloucester City Council leader Paul James set up the Docks and Quays Stakeholder Group and chairs its meetings.

He said: "I know that the works currently taking place in the Docks have made life difficult for some of the businesses operating there.

"We need to send a message out that the Docks is very much open for business and the museums, cafes, bars and restaurants need our support.

"It's great to see the different organisations and businesses in the area communicating and working together – something which didn't always happen in the past.

"There's a lot we still need to do to make the Docks the complete destination we know it can be, but with everyone's enthusiasm, I know this can be achieved."

Ryan Fortey, who owns Head Kandy hairdressers, said: "Everybody down here is really supportive, and it has helped us all to buck the trend against the recession.

"With the linkages project due to be finished soon, more people will be attracted to the area, and it can only get even better for the businesses down here."

Liz Lacy, office manager at Naylor Powell Estate Agents at the Docks, said: "Business is very good at the moment.

"We have got a lot more people coming in now than we did before. Because of the Quays we have got a much higher footfall now, which is great."

The Docks and Quays Stakeholder Group includes Gloucester City Council, British Waterways, the Regional Development Agency, Marketing Gloucester and businesses including Dr Foster's pub, Vinings Restaurant, the Antiques Centre and Head Kandy hairdressing, as well as the Waterways and Soldiers of Gloucestershire museums.