Shoreham traders unite to promote the town amid Covid-19 recovery

Shoreham’s independent traders have joined forces to boost post-lockdown recovery and promote the town.
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Galvanized by Ben Towers, owner of The Pad in East Street, around 30 businesses have come together to form the Shoreham Independent Traders Group.

“Our sole focus is to make Shoreham be a really great place for people to visit, not just locally, but from all over the country,” said Ben.

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“We found with Covid affecting us last year and with things like closing parking spaces to widen the high street, there were things being done that felt like knee-jerk reactions that were detrimental to the high street.”

Shoppers in East Street, Shoreham SUS-200616-152703001Shoppers in East Street, Shoreham SUS-200616-152703001
Shoppers in East Street, Shoreham SUS-200616-152703001

A lot of traders were contacting the councils individually, Ben said, so they decided they would be more effective as a unified voice.

Their first meeting was held in September with half a dozen traders, but that number has blossomed to around 30.

The plan is not only to promote the town’s businesses but also its rich history, natural beauty and attractiveness as a visitor destination.

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Information maps will be installed around the town, as well as signs directing people towards parking.

Ben Towers, owner of The Pad in East StreetBen Towers, owner of The Pad in East Street
Ben Towers, owner of The Pad in East Street

The group is also working with bodies such as Adur District Council and Sussex Police to tackle issues like anti-social behaviour and shoplifting.

Cycle group Shoreham-by-Cycle has been brought in to discuss how the town centre could be more appealing to cyclists, and Ben said talks are underway about more cycle spaces near East Street.

Amid the devastation of the pandemic, Shoreham has seen several new businesses open during the chaos.

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In the last 12 months, ventures like High Street’s Rooted and Co, Palate and Gusto in Brunswick Road and ABC Shoreham in Middle Road are some of the new offerings.

“The confidence those people must have in the town is a testament to Shoreham,” said Ben. “As long as they can get through these next six to 12 months, it will be fantastic.”

The association has launched a website, www.enjoyshorehambysea.co.uk, providing public information and highlighting the myriad of positives the town has to offer.

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