Shropshire Star

Plans to exend Sunday trading would be 'great loss'

The Catholic Bishop of Shrewsbury has said it would be a "great loss" if councils were able to relax trading hours on a Sunday.

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The Rt Rev Mark Davies said he was opposed to the idea that Sundays would be treated like "just another working day".

Plans were unveiled yesterday that could give local authorities the power to allow high streets to open longer on a Sunday – but not large supermarkets.

The move is part of a bid to revive the country's high streets and the Government is hoping to encourage councils to use the new powers to help town centre stores.

But the plans have come under fire from religious leaders who support the traditional day of rest.

Bishop Davies said: "From the beginning of our nation Sunday has been a day set apart for worship, family and recreation.

"It would be a great loss for everyone if the Government continues a policy of making Sunday into just another working day."

The plans were announced by communities minister Brandon Lewis and business minister Anna Soubry in a consultation process on liberalising trading laws.

Under the scheme, councils will be given powers to zone areas where Sunday trading laws could be relaxed.

The Government consultation proposes that the current law, which prevents shops that cover more than 3,000 sq ft from opening more than six hours on a Sunday, should be amended. Local councils and mayors would instead be given the power to decide which areas would be free from the restricted trading hours.

While the plans are still in consultation phases, many authorities have welcomed the news. Steve Charmley, Shropshire Council's cabinet member for business and culture, said: "We welcome the opportunity to be consulted on the proposed changes. As the consultation document was only released yesterday it is too early for the council to offer a considered view."

Councillor Shaun Davies, Telford & Wrekin Council cabinet member for business, neighbourhood and customer services, said: "The council is still awaiting further details about the Government's plan.

"Once we receive that information, we shall formulate any potential plans and hold our own consultation to give businesses, residents and other interested parties the opportunity to share their views."

Traders have also welcomed the move, with many saying it could provide a boost for smaller businesses. Kevin Lockwood, manager of the Darwin, Pride Hill and Riverside Shopping Centre in Shrewsbury, said: "We are keen to encourage shoppers to visit Shrewsbury on Sundays and take advantage of the current trading hours.

"But in terms of stores staying open longer we would have to be guided by our tenants and what they want."

  • Consultation on the plans is open until September 16. Visit www.gov.uk/government/consultations/devolving-sunday-trading-rules

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