I WOULD like to ask Mrs A Meddows (Letters: February 19) to spare a thought for the traders in Bolton town centre such as ourselves who are just trying to make a living.
Our suppliers and customers confirm that our loss of customers is Bury and other nearby towns' gain.
Where does the parking situation leave us? The council are reporting their financial gain from fines recovered and are ignoring the fact that more shops and units are either up for sale or becoming empty, proving that the public have had enough. Increases in rent and rates without increased trade has left business people no option but to close down.
There is much publicity when a new outlet opens, creating new jobs. But without a return of the customers already lost, I fail to see how these businesses can survive.
Luckily for us, we still have a core of loyal customers, not solely from Bolton, who keep our heads above water.
G & K Pickup
Longsight Lane
Harwood, Bolton
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