Taxis and rates the main topics on Helen’s Oswestry high street tour

MP Helen Morgan has visited a series of businesses on Oswestry high street to hear their views and suggestions for improving the economic landscape in town.

The MP was joined by Oswestry Business Improvement District Manager Adele Nightingale, stopping off at several local cafes, shops, and newly opened bar The Lounge on Cross Street.

Business rates were a consistent theme, with the point made that high street businesses pay a rate premium that doesn’t reflect modern shopping patterns – and pushes firms to out-of-town sites.

Another problem raised by bars and pubs in town is the lack of taxis. The MP has pledged to raise this with Shropshire Council and support high street shops in their ambitions to boost local transport links.

Helen Morgan, MP for North Shropshire, said, “Our market towns need thriving high streets. It was really useful to get to speak with independent business owners across Oswestry, to hear their views on what we can do to continue making the town flourish.

“We spoke a lot about the need for rate reform and the lack of decent transport links of all sorts – whether that’s taxis, buses, or the need for a rail link to town. I’m committed to taking these concerns down with me to Parliament and continuing to campaign for improvements that will help entrepreneurs here in North Shropshire.”

Adele Nightingale, Manager of the Oswestry BID, added, “We welcomed Helen’s visit to Oswestry as this gave a number of our businesses the opportunity to talk directly to Helen and let her know the issues they are currently facing and what help and support they need to not only continue to trade but to thrive.”