Traders’ fears for future of independent shops
TRADERS in the West End fear independent shops may be forced to move out because of spiralling rates and problems facing motorists.
They are worried rates hikes of up to 25%, new parking controls and longer operating hours for bus lanes will impact on business.
Company bosses are also concerned parking meters will not accept the new pound coin and claim West End streets are dirty.
Louise Burns, treasurer of Great Western Road Traders Association, said: “None of these encourage people to come to the West End and we feel we will see an exodus of small independents in the coming months.
“The bus lane on Great Western Road has been extended by 30 minutes until 7pm, which is completely unnecessary and means nobody can stop on their way home.
“Also, there is no need for the bus lane to be i n operation on a Saturday.
“I would like a bit of consultation with the shop owners on the operation of the bus lane which has always been an issue.”
Ms Burns, who owns Christo’s Gallery, says the change means she and other businesses must start evening events later.
She added: “Also, my rates are going up 20% but some shops in the streets have had their rates go up by 25% and at the same time, the place is dirtier than ever.
“I think that will drive out some of the smaller independent shops in the area.
“People are proud of living and working in the West End but we feel we need a wee bit of help.”
A city council spokesman said: “The new parking restrictions in Byres Road are the same as those which have been in use in Great Western Road since 2004/05.
“They have helped make it a vibrant boutique retail area by providing affordable short term parking for shopping and business needs.
“There is a rolling programme to convert all of the city’s parking meters to accept the new £1 coins.
“More than 500 have already been updated to accept the new coins, including all the machines in Byres Road.
“Work will begin on meters in Great Western Road this week – in the meantime, they still accept the old coins.
“People can also use the extremely popular mobile phone payment system RINGO to pay for parking.”