Rally of traders across Spenborough, Batley and Dewsbury to get economy going again

Shop local, support local - that’s the message from business leaders across north Kirklees today as our high streets begin to re-awaken.
Heckmondwike town centreHeckmondwike town centre
Heckmondwike town centre

Traders are gearing up for the re-opening of stores in our town centres next week and have called on customers to keep it local as they start to get back to business.

All non-essential shops were ordered to close on March 23 due to the coronavirus pandemic, but as part of the easing of restrictions, they are allowed to open up again from June 15.

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Now organisations are rallying to get the economy up and running again across the borough, after commerce has seen a three-month hiatus.

Dewsbury town centreDewsbury town centre
Dewsbury town centre

Dewsbury Chamber of Trade President, Paul Ellis said: “It’s very welcome to hear shops re-opening.

“I hope all businesses can follow such as barbers, hairdressers, pubs and clubs, which are essential for wellbeing and social interaction.

“The landlords and traders are desperate to open.

“Though err of caution; if this virus isn’t suppressed, and we have another lockdown, I dread to think of the consequences.”

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Chairman of Dewsbury Forward, Eric Firth agreed re-opening of business should be done gradually and carefully to avoid another spike of coronavirus.

He said: “I’m sure it will be a gradual and cautious opening as the social distancing rules remain in operation.

“The last thing we need is another virus spike.

“We have also heard that cafes and pubs may too be allowed to open very soon, with the added precautions.

“Let’s hope over the forthcoming weeks and months we can get back to some kind of normality in our town.

“The retailers will need our support.

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“They will need to stay safe and ensure the safety of their customers - but Yorkshire folk are very inventive.”

One such retailer has already re-opened after providing a bespoke, social-distancing method of service.

Robert Openshaw Fine Jewellery, in Cleckheaton, has created a counter at the entrance where people can book an appointment to pick up stock or drop pieces off for servicing.

Managing Director at the jewellers, Mark Hepworth, former leader of Spen Chamber, said: “The thought process behind this was I didn’t want Boris to say, ‘right, tomorrow shops can all reopen’.

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“The result would have been unnecessary queues outside my store because jewellers can spend considerable time with individual customers.

“I felt a booking system to be the best option, guaranteeing my customers are seen on time without the worry of waiting in queues on narrow pavements.”

Spen Chamber of Trade President, Fiona Shackleton said: “It’s great to see businesses adapting to the economic climate.

“Speaking to traders, the main issue so far has been social distancing outside their stores and to keep to government guidelines.

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“Cleckheaton is an area that already provides free parking, so it’s important visitors to the area are mindful and don’t needlessly block access for other shoppers and businesses.”

Acting chair of Birstall Chamber of Trade, David Exley said: “I’d ask the public to look at buying with smaller businesses. Many businesses have been lost during lockdown, including cafe Cobbles.

“Donna Pailing, who ran Cobbles, has since started Birstall Community Group, helping vulnerable people with low, or no income, throughout the lockdown period.

“It’s commendable and it’s time to help these businesses get back on their feet.”