Help your High Steret
OSSETT traders have vowed to keep the town centre alive by backing our recession-busting campaign to boost business.
Despite the demise of several town centre shops and pubs in recent months, traders hope to restore pride in Ossett precinct through the Help Your High Street Campaign.
The campaign, launched by the Express this week, will encourage residents to shop locally instead of travelling to supermarkets and shopping centres out of town.
They will be reminded of the range of shops on offer in Ossett, where a thriving market draws customers from across the district each Tuesday and Friday.
And local business will be encouraged to display Help Your High Street posters to promote the campaign in the coming months.
Terry Brown, chairman of Ossett Town Centre Partnership, a body of local traders, councillors and council representatives, welcomed the campaign.
But he said town centre improvements were needed to boost trade.
He said: "There is a lack of public facilities in the town centre. We need public toilets.
"Parking is also a problem. I'm certain that if we got more parking we would be a lot better off."
Incentives could also be provided to help small businesses set up shop in vacant town centre shops, Coun Brown added.
Sue McClennan, who runs Cakes and Favours, on Town End, Ossett, backed the campaign.
She said: "It sounds like a good idea. Business has been OK for us but a lot of people have been struggling recently because of the times we are in."
Council leader Peter Box and chief executive Joanne Roney have also thrown their weight behind Help Your High Street.
Coun Box said: "We should be trying to support local business and the district's markets in any way we can so they can continue to thrive. They create local jobs, provide a high level of service and offer very good products and produce."
Ms Roney said: "We need to all back local businesses, especially in the current economic climate. Shopping in your local town can save you money and help to keep small businesses open.
"They are the backbone of our communities which help preserve the unique character of towns while encouraging a feeling of belonging and keeping community spirit alive for generations to come."
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Weather for Wakefield
Saturday 19 May 2012
Today
Light rain
Temperature: 6 C to 10 C
Wind Speed: 17 mph
Wind direction: North
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Temperature: 7 C to 12 C
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