Warning over trade outlook

A businessman has warned that the “unthinking, continual anti-car measures” that are gathering momentum in Shrewsbury could see the end of smaller local shops.Steve Mitchell, who runs bf interactive in Frankwell, made his protest in an internet forum, saying that while the county council’s plans to pedestrianise much of the town centre were understandable, there was no thought about what would happen then.

“The centre used to provide a great cross section of both small independent stores and multi-national outlets, providing a reasonable choice of goods in a vibrant and attractive setting,” he said.

“I walked through town yesterday and noted at least 15 or 20 stores either empty, to let, or being run as charity shops.”

Mr Mitchell said soaring rates and utility bills have added to the pressures on town centre businesses, and shoppers should expect to see more closures over the coming months.

“It’s really up to local people to try and use the local stores,” he said. “When they close, then there is no choice.”

Shrewsbury and Atcham Borough Council leader Peter Nutting, who runs the Sports and Games shop in the town centre, agreed that shops needed the support of regular customers if they were to stay open.

“There is no doubt that in a town like Shrewsbury small shops are necessary for the atmosphere to be maintained.

“I do worry about the big companies taking over. What we don’t want is a high street with the same shops as every other town in the country. I believe local shops and people can give just as good service.”

But David Jones, 20, from Sundorne, who posts as Proud Salopian on the forum, said he did not believe there was anything to worry about.

Mr Jones said: “For as long as I can remember there have been empty units in the town centre, and for as long as I can remember there have been complaints about the supposed ‘problem’.

“If any shops close in the next year or so it’s most likely due to the economic downturn caused by excessive consumer spending and debt over the past 10 years or so.”