Lib Dem duo commit to shopping locally!

Brentwood West Lib Dem duo Cllr Karen Chilvers and Chair Nigel Clarke have committed to do 75% of their shopping at Brentwood's Independent Traders during the High Street improvement works and are urging local residents to do the same.

Karen said: "it's a simple case of "Use Them or Lose Them". If you've been to Brentwood on a Saturday recently, you might have been surprised at how easy it was to find a car parking space or how quiet it seemed. But, this isn't good news for the town's independent traders, who are struggling to keep afloat."

"The economic downturn has affected a lot of people but, for local traders in Brentwood, this is coupled with this administration's over-priced parking fees and the effects of the High Street improvements. It's becoming a real battle for some just to keep their businesses going."

Nigel Clarke added: "Everyday, I am talking to fellow local businesses who are not sure if they will survive the High Street improvements and this Christmas, let alone the recession. Essex County Council has put up signs on the outskirts of Brentwood literally telling people to avoid Brentwood due to "major delays" and I have been campaigning against these with the support of County Cllr David Kendall. Then there's Tory-controlled Brentwood Council who are doing too little too late to help local traders."

Karen and Nigel are both making a personal commitment to support local trade and do 75% of their shopping with Brentwood's independent traders during the High Street improvements, including their Christmas shopping.

You can follow their progress at www.karenchilvers.mycouncillor.org.uk and follow links to shops they have visited!