Horsham area retailers are praised for ‘tireless’ work

As shops across the district reopened for the first time in months on June 15 Horsham District Council cabinet member for the local economy councillor Paul Clarke said the reopenings were ‘really pleasing and encouraging’.

He added: “They have worked tirelessly during lockdown to adapt their businesses with new distribution methods.

“Many introduced home delivery and online services over the last few months which have been a crucial lifeline to customers, and now they have put all the necessary measures in place to re-open their doors and welcome shoppers back safely.”

Mr Clarke urged shoppers to spend local to boost communities and support businesses in the area.

He said: “The personal service, adaptability and unique offerings from independent retailers could be the very thing that saves our high streets and local people are more aware and keener to support them than ever.”

The district council has been working closely with local task force teams in the market towns and villages to ensure signage, stickers and business information is available to support re-opening.

It will continue to work with the local teams going forward to develop projects and promotional campaigns which will support the high streets in the longer term.

A spokeswoman for the council confirmed £128,000 of European Regional Development Funding has been awarded to the council to support this work and the council will ensure the money is spent in a way that directly supports the high streets’ sustainability and long term success.

Local retailer Elizabeth Hunt from Pulborough Traders Group added: “Several of Pulborough’s independent traders like Beneficial Health, Coughtrey’s Butchers, M. J. Suters, The Greenhouse, Corden’s/Kamson’s and the Pulborough Stores have operated continuously throughout the pandemic, with volunteers helping to provide delivery services to customers who are sheltering.

“Now with restrictions easing, more businesses have re-opened, operating with safety guidelines in place.

“The Flower Shop, which had been offering telephone orders and deliveries, has now reopened, whilst the Little Bean Cafe is now offering delicious home-cooked, ready to heat meals, pre-ordered afternoon teas, ploughman’s platters, picnic lunches and breakfast boxes.

“Lee’s Garden, River Moon and So India are also offering takeaway meals, whilst Hamilton Cole and Wilmers are open for sales and service of electrical goods.

“The Pulborough Exchange, selling lightly used, high quality household goods, will be re-opening on June 25.”

To help promote local businesses, the Pulborough Traders’ Association has launched a new website www.PulboroughTraders.co.uk, supported by a Facebook page and Instagram account, to help people find what they need locally.

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