Legitimate concerns have been raised regarding the impact the highways works will have on our Westgate/High Street businesses.
Town and District Councillor Charmaine Morgan has spoken to the Leader of the District Council raising these concerns. She said:
‘I have asked for support for our town centre. Neighbouring St Vincent’s Ward residents frequently visit/use the town centre.
Cllr Baxter confirmed Skdc are looking at whether some compensatory scheme is available. Possibly via a Council Tax rebate. This is important as our local businesses have had to get through covid 19 and they could face a loss in footfall lasting weeks.
Cllr Baxter advised SKDC need some more time to gauge/ identify what the overall impact on footfall is.
In addition I requested that skdc pay to advertise in local media that ALL the Westgate/Marketplace shops are still open and accessible during the works period.
Cllr Baxter acknowledged an issue re street signage also needs addressing.
The District are currently working on a plan to give access to the Saturday Market. There has been a lack of communication from LCC with the District which they are trying to resolve.
Town Cllr John Morgan and I and other cllrs will be there Saturday to see how well that works.
I have asked SKDC work with all shop keepers/business potentially affected to keep a record of their footfall and identity impact. This should include market stall holders.
I raised a concern that it is hugely disappointing/frustrating that Grantham councillors were not fully consulted re the plans before their implementation. We certainly would not support a scheme further reducing parking in the area.
The impact visually of the scheme goes well beyond the plan with Westgate shops and parking affected by barriers.
LCC are also carrying out works at the same time in Gonerby and off Springfield Rd indicates they are blitzing our town with little thought about the accumulative/overall impact.
Whilst road improvements are welcome, a far better plan and approach was needed and better consultation comms with all of the towns District & local members.
We can only hope the improved surface will bring more visitors into the town although disabled residents have flagged an issue over how the new flagstones will affect them. I am waiting an answer to that.’
Town & District Councillor Charmaine Morgan
Democratic Independents – Working for Grantham
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