Crisis-hit businesses make plea for support
HALIFAX IS being urged to support its independent hospitality businesses in the wake of at least another four weeks of crippling restrictions.
The town is home to a smorgasbord of local bars, pubs, cafes and restaurants - but they need custom if they are to survive the pandemic, residents have been warned.
“If you have liked how the town has been improving over the last five years and want that to continue, these businesses need your support,” said Michael Ainsworth, who runs The Grayston Unity and Meandering Bear.
Monday evening saw the hospitality industry’s hopes of being able to open to full capacity and without social distancing restrictions from next week dashed.
Several Halifax businesses have told the Courier that the news was not a surprise, and they support the decision, but have also spoken of the difficulties they face.
”There’s not enough footfall during the week,” said Michael. “People aren’t working in the town centre or outskirts, people are unsure about going out and people don’t like the perceived rigmarole of the restrictions.
“If you didn’t know Halifax, you could visit the Piece Hall and walk up through the Westgate Arcade and you’d think there was a buzz about the town but it’s a bit of a bubble. It’s not reflected across the rest of the town.”
Sean Pattison, who opened Dukes Halifax in the Market Arcade in April, echoed Michael’s call: “There are four independents in this arcade. Without us, it’d just be going to waste. The big boys aren’t going to keep the high street alive.”
Some businesses, like Maggies, have not opened since March 2020.“It’s been difficult,” said Manager Kirsten Wilcock, “Hopefully people will come
“If you have liked how the town has been improving, these businesses need you support.”
and support us when we are open.”
Restrictions have also hit theatres and cinemas. Kay Packwood, Executive Director of Dean Clough-based Northern Broadsides, said some venues are not opening until 2022.
Her company has been working on some limited-audience performances, providing work for theatre industry freelancers. “We’ve been keeping busy and keeping other people busy and hopefully keeping our audience engaged,” she said.
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