BUSINESSES in Stratford are feeling positive as they head into the summer, despite the ongoing challenges.
MP Manuela Perteghella met with business owners and managers from the hospitality, arts and tourism sectors recently at the Crowne Plaza hotel to discuss issues affecting businesses and staff.
Concerns were raised relating to the cost of running a business, including the hike in National Insurance contributions, energy prices and business rates.
The lack of affordable housing for young people, the cost of living and insufficient public transport links are also having a notable impact on businesses and the staff they employ.
However, the general sentiment was one of positivity and creativity in the face of challenges as Stratford still has much to offer.
The Stratford MP said: “It was great to be in the room with people who share my vision that Stratford-on-Avon is, and should continue to be, a prosperous and inviting place for businesses and tourists.
“Stratford-on-Avon is open for business, and we are looking forward to welcoming local, national and international visitors here again this summer to share in the many attractions our towns and villages have to offer.”
“I will continue to campaign for better transport links to make it easier for staff and visitors to commute to the area.
“I’m also very aware that the high cost of living and the lack of affordable housing which especially impacts young people, means that they are less able to afford to work in the area.
“There are rewarding career pathways in hospitality and tourism here, and we need to do more to upskill people and reframe hospitality careers. I’ll be speaking with schools and colleges in the area to see what can be done to link further education to real opportunities in the sector.
“I would like to invite lovers of Stratford-on-Avon to share their perfect weekend with us on social media, and share that positivity with the businesses they most admire by tagging businesses and using the hashtag #MyPerfectStratfordWeekend.”
