HELP

After the economic down turn, looting and now the water works in West Bromwich, I see our local Conservatives have asked for parking charges to be dropped in our 6 towns, just one day a week to help our local traders, markets and shops.

Traders interviewed from Wednesbury, West Bromwich and Blackheath said the proposal is an excellent idea would bringing back shoppers.

The Councils response

“The Council can do little to change shopping patterns”

Sandwell Tory said

“I have a message for Sandwell Council, according to the traders Sandwell’s parking charges did change shopping patterns, people went to Merry Hill”    

Sandwell Tory also said

The Government has set up a fund to help shop keepers and communities affected by the riots

As part of concerted, cross-Government action to help open up shops, rebuild damaged buildings, and make sure people who lost their homes are re-housed, the Local Government Secretary has announced a package of support including:

• A £10 million recovery fund to help councils with the immediate costs of making their areas safe, clear and clean again.
• A £20 million High Street Support Scheme, which will be made available immediately, for the streets and areas where businesses were affected by the rioting.
• In addition, seriously damaged homes and businesses will be taken off the respective valuation lists, which removes any liability for council tax or business rates.
• Councils already have the power to offer rate relief for local firms, while paying a quarter of the cost; central government automatically pays for three quarters of the cost. This Scheme will help reimburse councils for their costs, to facilitate immediate and real financial help to be given to small and medium firms to rebuild their local businesses.
• Re-housing funding to meet the immediate costs of emergency accommodation for families who have been made homeless by the disturbances.

http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/media-centre/news/934592

read more
http://www.expressandstar.com/news/2011/08/15/call-for-free-parking-to-boost-shopping/

Let’s wait and see if Sandwell Applies to help our people

Were still waiting to see if Sandwell applies for new school re-build money