Concern in Saltash over shop closures

Concern in Saltash over shop closures

Concerns over the buoyancy of Saltash's main shopping centre have emerged after it was revealed that several shops have closed down after finding it too expensive to keep trading.

At the recent Saltash Partnership meeting members heard that greengrocers, Henwood's, had shut earlier this month, leaving a notice to say it was no longer viable to trade in the town.

It was pointed out that the cycle shop has already gone and that Stitchcraft will close in May, and Tamar Florists in June. It is also likely that other Fore Street shops might close, or move.

The traders, who claim they are being suffocated by high rates and rents, have now called an open meeting to discuss the situation. They have said they would like to see more flexible leases from landlords as many current leases are too long - and a cut in business rates. Saltash Chamber of Commerce chairman Paul Crute said that fewer shops in the town meant worse trading conditions for those which are left.

Other fears include the effect of the works on the Tamar Bridge on shopping in Saltash. Town councillor Pip Miller has suggested that after August 11 and the eclipse Caradon awards free parking in Saltash in a bid to counteract loss of trade due to the works.

Helen White, who is closing her shop Stitchcraft, next month, spoke of rising rent and rates and the fact that she was not prepared to take on a new, long, lease. She added that she felt many businesses would also be affected by the introduction at the beginning of this month of the new minimum wage.

At the Partnership meeting chairman Stephen Tait said that larger stores, like Iceland, should be contacted in a bid to rejuvenate the town, and given details about the empty premises. He also felt a number of landlords had been given the impression that people in the town could pay high rents. He said: 'The hike in rents and the length of leases is a concern, and something drastic needs to be done.'

Mr Tait also suggested a letter be sent to local MP, Colin Breed, advising him of the problem. He went on to speak of towns such as Swansea where the local council had bought shop leases and then re-sold them.

A special opening meeting may be called by traders near the end of May to which other interested parties, such as Caradon council representatives and representatives of major employers, would be invited.