The debate surrounding the expansion of Beauty by El in Oswestry misses a simple but important point: an empty shop is about to become an occupied one.
Whether a business is a beauty salon, clothes shop, café, bookshop or something else entirely, a trading premises is almost always better than a boarded-up unit.
Empty shops create a sense of decline, reduce footfall and discourage investment. Occupied shops bring customers into town, create jobs and contribute to the local economy.
Read more
Warning to Shropshire Council amid talks over wider 20mph speed limit roll-out
Audience member urged to delete video after filming actors in Full Monty performance
New local media planning tool Raid launches today
Many people commenting online said they would prefer to see more clothing or shoe shops in Oswestry.
That is a perfectly valid opinion.
However, wishing for a different type of business does not fill an empty property.
The reality is that someone has been prepared to take on the premises, invest money and expand an existing business.
If residents want to see a thriving high street, the answer is not to criticise the businesses that are opening.
Name and address supplied
Share