Welshpool traders in support plea

Traders in Welshpool have issued a plea for help after poor recent sales figures.

The Welshpool Business Forum today issued a statement saying members were concerned that trade had been poor, even during last month's school half-term holiday.

Robert Robinson of Welshpool Projects, which holds the meetings, said it was the best-attended traders' meeting yet.

He said: "The general shopping trends were discussed and and trade generally has been poor with half- term week not being good.

"However, it was accepted that this is not just a Welshpool issue, but all over Mid Wales and the West Midlands.

"Rates and the level of them is a major concern of traders and the town council is to conduct another town centre survey to gain the necessary information to try and help. Charity shops is also a major issue.

"Younger people need to be attracted to the town."

Mr Robinson said that before the next meeting of the group on April 18, new measures will be in place including ideas for the website and new signage.

He said: "A rates information letter will also be issued to town centre traders and a Welshpool Melting Pot group on Facebook has also been set up."

He said the one-way system was now accepted by traders as "generally good".