The article below first appeared in Westminster Extra. Nickie writes a monthly column for the paper.
In my last Extra column, I wrote about the importance of getting our businesses open again as soon as safely possible. If businesses close not only will jobs be lost but vital parts of our local high streets could be ripped out. Something I am sure no one wishes to see.
As we see more parts of our economy begin to open following the gradual easing of lockdown conditions it has been reassuring to see so many local people returning to their favourite cafes, bars, restaurants. And more recently to hairdressers, nail bars, gyms etc. Many of our beloved cultural venues, including the National Gallery and the Tate, are also now open.
We were told to stay at home during lockdown, and because so many of us complied we have been able to reopen our economy. Now messaging has changed, and we are being encouraged to support our local high streets and beyond. At the same time, we must continue to be aware, be careful and be considerate. Obviously there are people who need to continue shielding for health reasons, but for the majority of us we can now venture out of our homes in Westminster and enjoy some normality, albeit a “new normal”.
Before Covid-19, businesses across Westminster relied not only on local footfall but on commuters and tourists. It is estimated that over one million people visited Westminster to work or visit every day. And a similar number in the half part of my constituency in the City of London.
Areas such as St James’s and the West End were and remain reliant on those who commute or visit daily to support local business.
However, commuters and tourists are unlikely to return to Westminster in the same numbers any time soon. Many companies are expecting staff to work from home well into the Autumn and possibly into the new year. The same is expected for tourism. International visitors are staying away, and domestic tourists are choosing a “staycation” in the countryside rather than Central London.
Our local businesses are therefore in a particularly precarious position compared to other parts of the country. Their potential customer base has been cut more severely than most through no fault of their own.
It is therefore, up to us, local people in Westminster, to come together to support and save our local businesses. Westminster would be a much poorer place without their distinctive character. We have so many outstanding independent cafes, restaurants, bars and shops. Without them we will have to rely on those big brand names which manage to survive the economic crisis that Covid19 is reaping. These may be well run companies, providing thousands of jobs but I for one want to see independent and family run businesses in our neighbourhoods too. I am very proud of the substantial fiscal package of support the Government introduced to support business during lockdown and beyond. I know from my mailbag that so many companies have been grateful for the grants, loans and furlough schemes. The latest Government initiative is one we can all get behind. The Eat Out to Help Out scheme runs from 3-31st August and gives you a 50% discount when you eat in a registered restaurant, café or bar. More information here.
We came together as a community to help our family, friends and neighbours during lockdown and I hope we can do so again to help our local businesses.
