We'll go on flying the flag for our small shops

A Battle to raise the profile of small independent traders in Bathand beyond marks its first birthday today.

For the past year the Chronicle has been loud and proud in supportof small traders across Bath and Wiltshire in our Campaign forIndependents.

It was launched a year ago today after readers bombarded us withletters and emails urging us to back under-pressure small traders.

Today the Chronicle has re-affirmed its commitment to thecampaign.

"For 12 months we have been doing what we can to fly the flag forsmall businesses," said Bath Chronicle editor Sam Holliday.

"We know how important village shops are to our communities andhow vital small independent shops in Bath are to the city and itseconomy.

"We are also well aware that times are tough out there on the highstreet.

"There is little doubt that economic belts are being tightenedwhich will, in time, have a direct effect on small businesses. Wefirmly believe that if these retail pillars of our communities are tocontinue trading, they need all the help they can get.

"And that's why the Chronicle is delighted to continue with ourcampaign to highlight the wonderful work these shops do for anotheryear."

Bath MP Don Foster said the Campaign for Independents helped smalltraders by reminding shoppers that the shops were there and remindingcouncillors and council officers of the need to make policy that isindependent trader-friendly.

He said it also helped independents realise someone was fightingtheir corner.

"Reminding people that we have the most exciting shopping in theregion is an important job," he said.

"And if Bath is to compete as a shopping destination it has tomaintain the vibrancy that comes from a blend of independent shopsand chain retailers.

"After all, that is what makes Bath such a special place.

"What we have to do now is continue to promote and further promotewhat we have, the farmers' market, the Christmas market, theGuildhall Market, the small shops and all of our village shops."

Cllr David Hawkins, cabinet member for development and majorprojects at Bath and North East Somerset Council, ran his ownindependent business in the city for 20 years.

He said: "The Chronicle's campaign has contributed towards thecouncil taking the future of independent businesses and small shopsmore seriously. The recent council review on this subject will formpart of the emerging retail strategy for the district.

"The new administration is developing plans for structured citycentre management arrangements, which will consider the needs ofindependent shops."

Theresa McDermott, president of Bath Chamber of Commerce, added:"The Chronicle's campaign has helped independent shops.

"They need to continuously have their cause championed becausetheir existence is what gives Bath its unique appeal," she said.

"I also think we need more debate about independents and how theyengage with the council.

"We need to create an environment so that independent traders canbe sure that if their market is right and their product is right,they can thrive."

Dan Norris, MP for Wansdyke, said: "Smaller independent traderscontinue to play a key role in small towns and villages where theynot only provide vital shopping services, but are often the hub oflocal communities and I commend the Chronicle's efforts over the pastyear to highlight what they do."

m.pardo@bathchron.co.uk