GOVERNMENT proposals to relax Sunday Trading hours could be “another nail in the coffin” of independent shops in Frodsham, a well-known local businesswoman has warned.
Gill Ballam, of Overton Village Stores, sounded the warning at a meeting of the Town Council.
She said the government’s proposals could devolve decisions down to local councils but she was not sure if, in Frodsham’s case. this would mean the Town Council or Cheshire West and Chester Council.
Whichever, she hoped the small businesses of Frodsham could count on their support in opposing the proposed changes which could have a disastrous effect on independent traders in the town.
The arrival of multiple chain stores with extended opening hours had already had a negative impact on her own business and many other independent businesses in the town.
Chairman Cllr Mark Warren stressed that the Town Council was not the responsible authority. It would be Cheshire West and Chester Council that many any decision.
However, the Town Council could support the town’s traders through lobbying.
Cllr Tom Reynolds said independent traders were the life blood of the community and it was a shame the Town Council did not have a town centre manager to help support them.
“We have to start looking at small businesses in the same way as farmers are looked at these days.
“Small businesses are also the stewards of the community. They know a lot of people and are probably the first line of contact, especially for the elderly and people who are ill.”
It would be a tragedy if Frodsham lost Overton Village Stores and other similar shops.
”We cannot afford to lose small businesses like this because of the unique nature they bring to the community” he added.
Cllr Warren agreed that Mrs Ballam’s business was extremely valuable to the community. He said the council would bear her comments in mind.
“It is no small thing to lose a small business,” he added.
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