A suitably social distanced meeting with Mayor of Coleford, Nick Penny, last Friday during my visit to retail businesses alongside Coleford’s Town, District and County Councillor, Carole Allaway Martin.
We discussed a number of issues, including the suspension of on-street car parking in St John Street by the District Council (currently run by Independent, Labour and Green Councillors) which I know is concerning retailers.
I have spoken to the District Council regarding the suspension of on-street parking and emphasised the need for flexibility and to listen to the concerns of retailers, which I hope they do.
I know that Cllr Allaway Martin is feeding back the views of retailers to the Town and District Councils.
We also spoke to Mayor Penny about the Government’s support for the arts, culture and heritage sectors affected by coronavirus. I’m pleased that the Chancellor Rishi Sunak (who was clearly listening to our conversation!) has since unveiled a significant package of support for this sector of £1.57 billion, including £880 million in grants.