Retail businesses in Telford have been hit hard by closures due to the coronavirus outbreak. In addition to loss of income, they have had to work hard to become Covid secure and to reopen. Some have also faced difficulties accessing Government financial support via the local Council. Lucy has worked closely with local businesses to secure the support they need to protect livelihoods during this difficult time.
On Friday, Lucy visited Dawley High Street, accompanied by Cllr Kate Barnes, to see for herself the incredible efforts of Dawley businesses in getting back to business as lockdown restrictions are eased.
Lucy visited several local stores including Flowerfair, Parrot and Palm, Thomas Allsorts and Deakin's Music, and was impressed by the enthusiasm of staff and store owners in embracing change and finding solutions to challenges.
The Government’s top priority has always been to support people, protect jobs and businesses through this crisis. Telford benefited from unprecedented assistance and grants across all industries, including:
- 14,200 jobs protected via the furlough scheme
- £8,900,000 to support self-employed people
- £34,387,498 of Bounce Back Loans for small companies
- £17,237,213 of business grants paid out
Lucy welcomed constructive discussions with business owners around their experiences and the broader challenges facing local high streets in Telford. She was especially pleased to hear that, in many cases, the support received by businesses secured their survival throughout this difficult economic period.
Commenting, Lucy Allan MP said:
"It is heartening to hear how the Government's robust package of support schemes for businesses and individuals has helped so many in Telford.
I am full of admiration for these businesses in overcoming obstacles and keeping on going in these difficult times. They have my total support."
Cllr Kate Barnes said:
"It has been great to see our local businesses in Dawley High Street adapt and move forward despite a number of setbacks this year. Lucy's visit was welcome in allowing businesses to share their concerns and the challenges they have been met with in recent months.
Dawley has so much to offer in terms of local shops and services: with easy access from local car parks, it's convenient too. Many residents want to see this experience improved further and I hope our local community will continue to show support for local, inspiring businesses."
