Ashfield shoppers urged to continue supporting local businesses

Retailers across the district will start to open from Monday, June 15 after three months closure due to the Covid 19 crisis.

Entertainers will welcomes shoppers back to the region’s town centres, “street ambassadors” will be on hand to offer reassurances, whilst businesses have been provided with information on safe reopening.

Sutton, Kirkby and Hucknall will all see a number of high street shops open, joining those that have been providing essential services throughout the lockdown.

Cllr Jason Zadrozny, Leader of Ashfield District Council said “Many of you have been shopping local since lockdown began and we hope you will continue to keep shopping local. All three of our towns offer a wide variety of independent and high street shops. When you shop local it provides a much needed boost to the local economy.”

Social distancing measures will be in place including floor markings, queue systems, limited numbers allowed in shops and street furniture will be regularly cleaned.

Car parking in Ashfield District Council owned car parks will remain free until August to support local businesses. The council will then be launching two hour free stay bays in their town centre car parks.

Cllr Zadrozny continues “We understand people’s anxieties around being out and about again, but we want to reassure residents that we have measures in place to ensure that their experience in our town centres is a positive one.

“The message is clear, Ashfield is open for business. I wish to personally thank all those retailers that were able to remain open, and adapted their way of working to meet the needs of residents.

“Our commitment to town centres was apparent before lockdown, with the Towns Fund and Future High Streets funding two of our key priorities. Please continue to support local retailers, and let’s make our town centres the vibrant shopping centres they deserve to be.”Retailers at Idlewells indoor market will also open from Monday, June 15, joining other outdoor markets that have recently successfully reopened.