Keynsham’s Chamber of Commerce and the Council are spreading the word that the town is open for business following a reported downturn in trade caused by work taking place until March.
Although a one-way system is in place to accommodate planned work by Wales & West Utilities, the town is perfectly accessible and car parking spaces are in plentiful supply. But local businesses believe the message hasn’t got across to the general public.
Lynn Young, Chair of Keynsham Chamber of Commerce and proprietor of Perfect Fit on Temple Street, said: “I’m genuinely afraid that some businesses will close down if these trading conditions continue.
“The feedback I’ve received is that many businesses up and down the High Street and Temple Street have been hit hard in the first few days of the utility work. Takings are down massively. This is simply down to long-standing customers thinking Keynsham has shut up shop.
“The message that we need to get out is that buses and cars can still get to Keynsham. There are spaces to park your cars and do your shopping, including at the Civic Centre car park where people are still not sure whether they can park or not. Your local shops need your support.”
The Council is playing its part by instructing Wales and West to provide five ‘Open for Business’ signs at strategic locations in and around town, ensuring construction deliveries at its £34 million town centre regeneration project are made at times that minimise disruption and using its communication channels to help spread the word.
Councillor Paul Crossley, Leader of Council, said: “We are helping traders as much as we can to keep Keynsham alive and kicking during the Wales and West Utilities road works. Free parking is available for 2 hours at The Labbott North car park; free 30 minute spaces are available at Ashton Way and the Civic Centre car park behind the redevelopment if now open for business.
“We welcome any other ideas about how to promote Keynsham as a shopping destination during this difficult time for traders.”
Anyone with ideas can contact the Council via [email protected] or via Twitter @bathnes
