Seaside News – June 2022
Town centres used to be vibrant places filled with shoppers patronising local businesses but the rise of internet shopping has led to decline in many areas. However, the Welsh Labour Government has the means to fight back and to ensure that our towns not only survive but thrive.
Instead, they continue to punish businesses with the highest business rates in the UK. If action were taken to reduce this burden alone, then many more shops would stay solvent. Welsh Conservatives at the Senedd have outlined their proposals to build stronger, safe communities which include putting power back into the hands of local people so that they decide where new housing and other developments should be located – something that Porthcawl residents have been calling for in relation to plans for Salt Lake in particular.
Welsh Conservatives are also campaigning for community facilities like pubs, shops and libraries to be taken over by local residents – as already happens in England.
Community Ownership Funds in Wales would have the ability to unlock the potential to revitalise their neighbourhoods – but is a lost opportunity under Labour in Wales at the moment.
We deserve better!