Your town centre needs you! That's the message from a Lanarkshire business rep calling for the public's help against the ongoing challenges local high streets face.
The impact of Covid has caused many businesses to suffer as restrictions over the past two years meant footfall in town centres plummeted.
In Hamilton, recent big name closures such as M&S have proved to be a huge blow for the town.
But there's still a positive future ahead, explains Hamilton BID manager Malcolm Thomas-Harley, who asks locals to support their town in the months ahead.
The business rep is providing a monthly column telling readers what’s happening in Hamilton; the work of many local businesses; and how we can all support each other.
What’s happening in Hamilton?
with Malcolm Thomas-Harley
After over two years of restrictions impacting all walks of life including our own town centre there is no doubt that we are all looking forward to better and brighter times ahead.
However, the well documented challenges of town and city centres remain present and the need for support and evolution in this area is vital.
All we need to do is look at the impact on streets such as the once-bustling Sauchiehall Street in our largest city neighbour to understand the challenges faced.
In our town centre the departure of M&S and the ending of further Covid business support around rates also represents a risk that needs everyone who cares about the town to work together - public, council and business.
Hamilton Our Town (BID) led by myself and a wonderful board of volunteers from within the town continue to work hard to combat the issues.
We may not have the powers of a council; however, we can make a difference and we are passionate ambassadors for our town.
The opening of new local independent businesses in the area over the past 12 months and the Premier Inn is a strong indicator that Hamilton is a great place to do business.
However, we must support these businesses and remember to shop local at every opportunity.
Check out our social media Hamilton Our Town to find out more about the great businesses in the town.
This year, Hamilton Our Town (BID) will be writing a new business plan and we have been listening closely to the businesses that we represent in the area via a survey launched recently.
If you operate a business in the BID area there is still time to fill in the survey which you will find on our website at www.hamiltonourtown.co.uk.
Later in 2022, we will be reaching out for businesses support to reinstate us for a new term which will enable the continuation of all services and events such as the light switch on, parades, markets and the work that we do working together and for the businesses.
Looking ahead to Easter I am delighted to announce that we are organising a brand-new Easter Gala market days on April 9 and 16 on Quarry Street.
The street will be filled with activities for the kids, an Easter trail, story telling and activity area as well as lots of local performers, music and market stalls.
Look out for all the details on our social media and remember to Shop, Eat, Play and Stay Local!
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