Town clerk blasts doom mongers

 

Robert Robinson has issued a counter statement following a claim in Shropshire media that ‘Welshpool should be avoided’ and has gone on record to confirm that fashion chain Peacocks is the latest big name that has shown its confidence in the town. It is now expected to follow Home Bargains into units to be constructed on the Tesco site.

 

“Depite the many changes in the town over the past few months, the character has been retained with its landmarks such as Powis Castle, Town Hall, Powysland Museum, Old Station, Markets, Steam Railway and the Royal Oak Hotel,” he said.

 

“The car parking space provision has increased by over 50% with over 1,100 spaces now in the town. There is free car parking in the Tesco car park for three hours so you can shop where you like in the town. The main streets have bunting and flags put up in the summer months to make the town more festive.”

 

Mr Robinson’s retort follows criticism that developments like the new one-way system and Tesco have removed the soul from the town and hit small local businesses as summer tourists avoid the centre.

 

But not so says the town clerk who says national retailers like M & Co, Boots the Chemist and Superdrug bring more credibility to the town and complement the smaller family businesses. He also said the council is pushing for better car park signage.

 

“In amongst the smaller shops are jewellers, wool, crafts, flowers, bikes, books, butchers, fruiters, organic goods, specialist clothes, antiques, clothes, shoes, household, DIY, crafts and so on,” said Mr Robinson, determined to promote Welshpool to a wider audience as the summer weeks continue. “The market halls are open Monday to Saturday and offer an interesting walk around with a mix of goods on sale as well as free public toilets.

 

“There is also a great choice in coffees shops, takeaways, fish & chip shops, cafes and restaurants around the town and in addition you will find the usual white goods, computers, cards, newsagents, bathrooms, kitchens, insurance, phones, hairdressers, general stores, launderette, petrol filling stations, workshops, weddings, charity shops, banks, cinema, night club and other service outlets.

 

“The town is easy to get around and except on very busy holiday days is free flowing. The Town also has public toilets and a full Tourist Information Service with coach parking.”

 

What do you think? Is Mr Robinson right or is Welshpool being avoided? Let us know on our Facebook page which now has 2,050 members!