Alliance backs town centre shopping in the run up to Christmas

12.39.58pm GMT Wed 13th Dec 2006

Antrim Alliance Councillor, Alan Lawther

Alliance Party Finance Spokesperson, Cllr Alan Lawther, has stated that town centre shopping and regeneration is the way forward for business in Northern Ireland. He stated that the run up to Christmas emphasizes the importance of town centres on both a retail and community basis. He also backed the Federation of Small Businesses' (FSB) reviving retail plan.

Alan Lawther said: "Town centre shopping is the best option for retail growth Northern Ireland. I strongly support the FSB's reviving retail plan.

"The Christmas period emphasizes the strengths of town centre retail with a strong sense of community and festivities in town centres across Northern Ireland.

"Town centres and their shops are the heart and soul of communities in Northern Ireland. They also provide massive employment opportunities for the region.

"We must ensure that small local businesses can compete on a level playing field with bigger international retail chains. Local retailers and small businesses must be supported as they are a large part of our community and tradition.

"Better public transport links would help boost town centre retail and reduce congestion, therefore attracting more shoppers."

ENDS