Businesses urged to join Pickering town forum (From Gazette & Herald)

Businesses urged to join Pickering town forum

11:05am Wednesday 6th March 2013 in News

TRADERS are being urged to attend a meeting of Pickering’s business group to help shape the town’s future success.

Group leader, Coun William Oxley, who is also Pickering mayor, said: “The group is the town council’s point of contact with the traders and has a vital part to play in the future of Pickering.”

Issues due to be debated are the war weekend in October and the level of interest businesses may have in the CCTV scheme.

Coun Oxley said: “The group is particularly important in these difficult times when we all have to work together to promote Pickering and ensure businesses thrive.

“We are aware that some shop premises are empty for longer and that other retail businesses are not having it easy.”

Recent meetings of the group, he said, had been well attended.

“They have shown there is a real sense of community that we want to rekindle,” said Coun Oxley.

“We are keen for all businesses to get involved, not just retailers, but those on the industrial estate, and the accommodation providers.

“dThe aim is to focus on issues that will improve the town and encourage residents and visitors to shop here.

“Groups like ours are having a significant impact in such places as Helmsley and Malton, and we don’t want Pickering to fall behind.

“There is no room for complacency and delay.”

Pickering also has a successful Breakfast Business Group, said Coun Oxley.

“It is another example of our businesses coming together to explore opportunities,” he added.

The meeting is at Bar 4 in the Market Place on Tuesday at 6pm.