Plea to help Fylde businesses survive lockdown

Business groups have asked for help from residents and landlords

Along with a plea for residents to support local shops, now where possible and when more normal business resumes, the Lytham Business Partnership is calling on landlords to do their bit to help out businesses and prevent even more empty premises from blighting shopping areas.

The Partnership has said in a statement: “Like high streets across the UK, Lytham businesses are facing unprecedented challenges that could see the demise of the town as we know it.

“Even without the announcement that restrictions will not be lifted as soon as we would have liked, many are struggling and will sadly not survive.

“There has been a crushing loss of income as we have ‘lost’ several bank and school holidays, and major events and festivals have been cancelled, all of which are lucrative times in the town’s calendar.

“Grants have helped in some part, but re-booting Lytham’s economy is going to require support from each and every stakeholder.

“The more businesses survive, the better it will be for everyone. We know that even 20 per cent of vacant premises adversely affects tourism and then we end up in a downward spiral.

“It is in all our interests to keep the town the busy, vibrant place it has always been.

The Partnership’s plea is being back by its equivalent in St Annes, the St Annes Enterprise Partnership (STEP) and Fylde MP Mark Menzies.

STEP said in a statement: “St Annes is also feeling the effects of the loss of trade, with all sectors struggling to a different degree.

“The hotels and accommodation providers have missed out on vital Easter and Bank Holiday trade and are yet unsure when the ‘season’ will start for them.

“Many of the businesses that cannot trade are using the time to work on their business, refurbishing interiors, repainting exteriors and preparing to ‘hit the ground running’ when they can open back up.

“Other businesses have adapted or extended their usual practice to make the best of the situation. For the businesses that remain open, STEP and St Annes Town Council created a list of services with contact details.

“One good thing that has come out of this situation is the community spirit, with offers of help from individuals, businesses and groups.

“We hope this teamwork continues long-term, along with the appreciation of all that we have locally and the support of local businesses.”

Fylde MP Mark Menzies said: “The Government has launched an incredible amount of aid for both business owners and landlords and I hope all affected business owners have been in touch with the hub at Fylde Council, which is helping distribute grants and advising on furlough and loan schemes.

“I would also ask everyone to keep shopping local for goods and services as much as possible in these difficult times.”