Seems while we see our outlying shops pulled down and even ones in the main shopping area unlet neighbouring towns are seeing the opposite?

 

http://www.newspostleader.co.uk/news/business/new-outlets-are-planned-1-6446126?utm_medium=twitter&utm_source=twitterfeed

"The council did not receive any letters of objection, just letters of support."

 

Something else to think about the next time a proposed development is fought against in this area.

 

We can't insist on pushing the conservation argument and anti business agenda and wonder why nobody is interested in investing.

A reduction in business rates would go a long way to help and we do need help. All that is happening in Bedlington is that new houses are being built but there is no infrastructure in place to keep Bedlington cash in Bedlington. Newcomers come here because house prices are cheap but they commute out to spend, the making of a ghost town. Any successful small town has a good variety of shops in the high street, keeping the money' in-town' and keeping house prices steady rather than on the decline. Once house prices go on the decline in contrast to the surrounding areas (in our case because there are no shops) then the town is on a hiding to nowhere.

 

I can see so much good in Bedlington: a community spirit and a hidden wealth of expertise - but too few outlets for them.

Is the market café up rent ... or is it the flat above ( or both ) ?

I think it is the flat above, just had a look at Louis Johnson's website to try and find it listed it is not, however looks like the old jewelers is up for sale. Have a look.

http://www.louis-johnson.co.uk/property.php?property=372

Not sure its a flat, didn't the cafe expand upstairs at one point?  

 

And before wasn't ti a secretarial services or something? 

Not sure its a flat, didn't the cafe expand upstairs at one point?  

 

And before wasn't ti a secretarial services or something? 

 

It was at last count, surprise surprise, a hairdressers/beauty salon......