Today we’re celebrating Small Business Saturday – an opportunity to show our support for all the brilliant small businesses we have across North Oxfordshire.
A couple of weeks ago, I went and spoke to some of our small business owners on Parsons Street. I popped into several shops including: Ralph & Tony’s Barbers, Banbury Bridal, Tess’ Brilliant Bakes and the Abraxas Cookshop. I also enjoyed some local produce from the Charter Market which always has so much to offer every Thursday and Saturday.
It was a useful opportunity to discuss how local businesses have been getting on and the challenges they continue to face. I know the Chancellor’s extension of business rates relief will have come as welcome news on the high street. The Government recognises the vital contribution that small businesses make to the economy and to our communities.
We also discussed Cherwell District Council’s Banbury Vision 2050 project. This major survey is seeking to gather local people’s views on why they use the town centre, how they travel around it and how it can be improved. It is important that as many people as possible engage to ensure we can make our town centre truly fit for the future.
Do go out and support a small business today, and throughout the year!
