Cllr Martin Johns and Cllr Lisa Samiotis discuss concerns with a local shopper

Local people are expressing concerns over the closure of shops in Towcester. Commenting, Councillor David Tarbun says: “Time and again on the doorstep and in replies to the Lib Dem FOCUS newsletter, residents have raised concerns over local shops closing or under threat. Liberal Democrats are campaigning for more positive action to help increase visitors and local people into the town centre to shop and use services. The closure of Towcester’s Co-op store highlights that urgent action is needed.”

Councillor Martin Johns adds: “Lib Dems are working with the district council’s economic development officers on a number of ideas. These include measures to attract many more people into the town who visit Towcester Racecourse and Silverstone race track.”

Councillor Lisa Samiotis says: “Liberal Democrats are opposed to any plan from the Conservatives that results in reducing existing town centre parking and retail space. The Lib Dems are also strongly in favour of keeping car parking free in Towcester. Imposing parking charges in Towcester would be a disaster for the town.”

Councillor Chris Lofts comments: “Its vital we do all we can to support local businesses. The Tories road closures the pressures on parking as a result of moving the council offices aren’t helping Towcester. The Conservatives are also still refusing to use a ‘Towcester town centre fund’ created from housing developers’ contributions. This fund, containing tens of thousands of pounds, should be used now to support initiatives to boost our town centre.”