Why our high street needs you now!

Many businesses have been given the green light to reopen from next Monday (June 15).

Although it could be another month before others can reopen - including pubs, restaurants and cafes - owners are working hard to make sure their premises meet strict health and safety regulations.

Louth and Horncastle MP Victoria Atkins has praised the businesses who have managed to stay open during lockdown and is hoping the easing of restrictions will signal the start of an economic U-turn.

She said: “I know it has been a challenging time for many independent businesses which are at the heart of our market towns, but hopefully they can now start to look to the future.

“I hope people will support the businesses that are able to open - provided it is absolutely safe to do so.”

East Lindsey District Council leader Coun Craig Leyland said: “The coming weeks mark an important step in our ongoing recovery from the pandemic.

“I know the past few months have been very hard for shop owners and many have faced uncertain futures. However, from Monday, they will be able to welcome customers once more.

“Whilst it will not be the same as it was prior to lockdown - and whilst the experience of shopping will be much changed in order to keep everyone safe - it will still be fantastic to see these businesses up and running once again.

“We are blessed with a superb array of independent retailers and traders in East Lindsey, many of whom have adapted to help serve their communities during these difficult times.

“I’d encourage our residents to show their appreciation for the job they do and support their local high street as it begins to reopen.”

Horncastle Mayor Coun Fiona Martin added: “Many more of our wonderful local independent shops in town will be reopening. They will have had to make significant investments in order to be able to do this.

“All the local businesses, independent and those that are part of bigger organisations which have been able to kept us going through lockdown, have also only done so because they have made great investments and sacrifices.

“Please support them and remember to tell all your friends and relatives in the surrounding area what a superb range of shopping and takeaway food opportunities we have in Horncastle.”

Woodhall Spa Parish Council chairman David Clarke said: “Only by shopping locally will the viability of our local businesses be protected and our shopping streets continue to be vibrant.

“As the businesses in Woodhall Spa begin to reopen again, it will bring life and vitality back to our village and much needed revenue for our retailers.”