Civic leaders want to create Christmas ‘buzz’

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Tuesday, 8 December 2020 16:28

By Carmelo Garcia - Local Democracy Reporter

Civic leaders want to create a “buzz” for shoppers in Kington in the run up to Christmas.

Kington Town Council has agreed to pay around £246 so that people can park for free in the town the next two Saturdays and during the week from December 21.

They are also going to make enquiries about using The Place de Marines and Old Coach House as a place where people can meet others for outdoors coffee.

Kington Chamber of Trade chairman Emma Hancock said: “It’s difficult times for everyone at the moment.

“People need our support more than ever.

“I know Kington isn’t expensive to park, but I do think it’s something to encourage people to park their car and shop locally.

“If you can go with your friend for a coffee and sit with your friend for a chat once you’ve done your shopping, it does make a difference.

“It will be the boost for the town that is needed in these crucial weeks leading up to Christmas.”

Chris Coates said: “We suggested maybe using the Place de Marines and the Coach House with socially distanced tables and chairs so that people could meet up get takeaways from the shops and generally have a bit of a buzz around the town for the shopping.

Mayor Bob Widdowson said they would have to consult with Herefordshire Council.

Councillors agreed to look into the possibility of setting up tables and chairs.

“If we are going to promote shop locally with free parking it would link up quite well,” Ms Hancock said.

“It’s an opportunity that should be grasped and one not to miss. It would just give people that little bit of hope in the build up to Christmas.”

Clerk Liz Kelso said she would have to check with the insurers and do Covid risk assessments.

Councillors will also coordinate with Kington Markets.