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07
Jan 2021
Third lockdown threatens Knaresborough retail revival
The prospect of a lengthy third lockdown with no firm end date in sight is causing serious concern among Knaresborough retailers.
Knaresborough has seen a boom in new businesses lately but the current uncertainty is putting new and old shops in jeopardy.
The town's streets have been eerily quiet this week after non-essential shops were forced to close again. Many are moving online to try to reduce financial losses.
Additional financial support has been offered by the government but shops say this isn't enough to cover the money they would have made by staying open.
Country 2 Western, on Castlegate, sells a wide range of American-themed items from cowboy boots to belt buckles. One of its owners, Christine McLeod, said it relies on venues and music festivals to sell its niche products.
She added:
Ms McLeod said she will focus her efforts on online sales but added it was vital music events were able to continue in summer.
Read more:
- Knaresborough's Two Brothers restaurant has sights set on new venue on the high street.
- Knaresborough dog groomers finds new home on the high street.
On the high street, The Clothing Store of Knaresborough only opened a few months before lockdown hit.
Its owner, Rebecca Lombardi, was left "devastated" by the announcement and is worried that the short amount of time she has had to establish the business will impact online sales.
She said:
Bill Taylor, treasurer of Knaresborough Chamber of Trade, said:
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