"We want a safe, clean town that Rugbeians want to visit": Town centre business owners make voices heard
Concerned owners of town centre businesses in Rugby have shared the issues they face in a new short film.
They want a say in how Rugby Borough Council delivers its ten-year plan for the town centre.
Rising rates, concerns about footfall, parking issues and safety worries have been raised.
Commercial property expert Steve Bell made the film, which is now available on YouTube.
He said: “I spent a morning with Rugby town centre business owners, asking why they’re here, what’s changed, and what would make the biggest difference.
"Their answers are honest, sometimes frustrated, and full of love for the town.”
Angela McDonnell has been involved with Rugby town centre for 27 years.
She's now setting up a community interest company for the Love Rugby Business group, so businesses can speak with one voice.
Angela said: “Rugby Borough Council officers need to be accountable and deliver a safe clean town that Rugbeians want to visit.
"There is no third party they can shift the blame to - the spotlight is on them now.”
A spokesman for Rugby Borough Council, said: “As part of the council’s commitment to improve the town centre and the visitor experience the council is delivering a range of interventions.
"A new network of town centre signs and maps will make it easier for people to find local businesses and attractions, discover more of Rugby and spend longer in the town.
"The scheme supports wider regeneration work, including business rates relief, shopfront grants, action on empty shops, support for market traders, more events, cleaner streets and community safety.”
Watch the film at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uvbd944yIiI Visit @stevebellproperty on social media accounts.