Decline in sales worries traders

Traders in a Bridgnorth shopping precinct fear their takings could plummet unless empty stores are filled quickly.

Shopkeepers in Central Court, off High Street, say business has been hit badly over the past few months following the closure of a number of longstanding stores.

Three shops in the precinct have ‘To Let’ signs hanging outside and there is no indication that they will be reopened in the near future.

The recent closure of Mike’s Jeans and a fire at The Party People fancy dress and party shop in February has meant the once-bustling shopping area is struggling to attract trade.

Carol Swinnerton, from Helena’s Accessories/Bag Heaven, said: “We have noticed business has gone a lot quieter recently following the closure of the fancy dress shop.

“They used to have an open air antique market which attracted a lot of people and now that has gone too.

“We’ve been really quiet since what happened at the Severn Valley Railway last summer and we’re just hoping it’s a nice summer so takings go up.”

Bridgnorth Chamber of Commerce chairman Wayne Vernon, owner of Liage Opticians, High Street, said he was concerned the empty shops were not being filled.

“The problem traders in Central Court have is it’s off the beaten track,” he said. “It’s not immediately obvious because it’s sandwiched between other shops.”