THE High Street in Machynlleth is one of many in Montgomeryshire that would be boosted by abolishing business rates for small business, according to Assembly Member Russell George.

Looking at the year ahead, the AM for Montgomeryshire, said: “In 2020, one thing on my wish list would be to see the abolition of business rates for all small businesses with a rateable value of up to £15,000 to support businesses on our High Streets.

“This is what is needed to provide the wealth and job creators in town centres such as Newtown, Welshpool, Llanidloes and Machynlleth with what they need.

“And it is especially important in light of figures published recently which indicate that some areas experienced a drop of 3.1 per cent in retail footfall, with the worst drop in the week of Black Friday when shopper numbers fell by some 4.5 per cent.”

He added: “In 2020, we need to do all we can to ensure that businesses are not squeezed out of existence.

“We need a permanent solution to help our small businesses and boost the Mid Wales economy rather than a mere sticking plaster.”