A report tabled in the Legislative Assembly this week into the impact work on the light rail had on nearby businesses found 78 per cent reported a drop in footfall between January and July.

In the same time period, 73 per cent reported a drop in revenue.

The report found 69 per cent of businesses reported decreased foot traffic between April and December 2017.

Thirty-one businesses along the light rail route in the Gungahlin town centre responded to the survey.

Despite the figures, many businesses said they were optimistic about a boost in customers once the transport project opened to passengers.

"The finished construction activities and opening of the light rail is expected to provide a positive outcome for existing businesses during operation," the report said.

"While respondents to the survey indicated very minimal opposition to the project themselves, most respondents had hoped for shorter construction times."

Noise, dust and traffic were listed as major concerns from businesses along the route, with some stating they would have closed during construction if they had been given the option.

Businesses directly fronting onto affected streets perceived the largest reduction in customers.

The report also found the rate of businesses exiting the Gungahlin area reached a three-year high during 2017 at almost 19 per cent, compared to the ACT rate of 12.3 per cent for the same period.

The number of businesses setting up shop in Gungahlin last year also fell to their lowest levels since 2014.

Despite this, the government report stated other construction projects may also be to blame.

"Due to large population growth, the timing of some [commercial] developments have coincided with the construction activities in the Gungahlin town centre," the report stated.

"Therefore they are likely to have contributed to a perceived reduction in footfall, given the improved access that smaller [town] centres may offer."

Businesses in the area have previously aired concerns due to light rail construction, with some reporting having to wear ear plugs to work due to the noise.

Liberal MLA James Milligan said assistance is needed for affected businesses.

"They have taken a hit from the government's construction projects and they need a bit of extra help," Mr Milligan said.

"They have clearly stated in this report that financial support and compensation for loss of revenue would help reduce the impact of construction works on their businesses."

Work on the light rail is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

Transport Minister Meegan Fitzharris was contacted for comment.