No place for local shop keepers in new town plans?

4.38.26pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 4th May 2005

Terri Girling explains to Lee Glendon her concerns over the future of independent and charity shops in Bracknell

On a visit to Oxfam in Bracknell Town centre on Tuesday, Lee Glendon met with Terri Girling, who explained her concerns over the future of small shops such as her own under the new vision for Bracknell's town centre. She has not received any guidance about the fate of her shop and similar stores in the Broadway, which is holding back key decisions on investment for the charity store. Terri Girling explained that the Oxfam store provided significant funds for charitable projects with turnover reaching a record £180,000 in the past 12 months - during the time of the Tsunami appeal Oxfam provided a focal point for local people to show their support for those affected by the tragedy.

Lee Glendon commented:

"The Oxfam shop provides an important service for local people as evidenced by record sales in the past year - it's vital that small stores are not sidelined during the town centre regeneration project and can continue to provide a much needed service to local Bracknell people. I urge the council to work closely with local traders to help them plan for their future as an integral part of the new development."