Business Column: Preparations going well for town's Christmas lights switch-on

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On October 16, I attended the planning committee meeting to hear and speak about the application for the Priory Centre redevelopment, writes Philip Jackson, chairman of Worksop Business Forum.

The development, which will include a climbing wall, bowling alley, indoor play area and food court was approved.

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The Business Forum’s response to the application was discussed at our August meeting, after discussing the plans with Priory Centre businesses who are represented by Diana, the owner of Café Neo.

Whilst both the Business Forum and Priory businesses support the plans, some concerns were mentioned: repositioning of security shutters to protect shops during the late evening whilst the entertainment area is open, flood defenses for units that still suffer from flooding and work not starting until after Christmas.

Guest columnist Philip Jackson is the chairman of Worksop Business Forum.Guest columnist Philip Jackson is the chairman of Worksop Business Forum.
Guest columnist Philip Jackson is the chairman of Worksop Business Forum.

I spoke about these items at the meeting.

I would like to congratulate our local independent businesses selected by Guardian Facebook readers as some of the best independent shops in Worksop.

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They include Priory Cards in the Priory Centre, Machins DIY Centre on Watson Road, Ken Ward Sports on Carlton Road, Westaff on Bridge Street, Waddingtons Mens Wear on Bridge Place, Carlton House Antiques, Crafts and Gifts on Carlton Road, Worksop Sofas on Vulcan Place, Pearly’s Bargains on Eastgate, GemGuru Crystals on Bridge Street and Eyres Furniture at the top of town, opposite the Market Square.

As we get closer to the Christmas period, shops around the country tend to see an increase in shoplifting. In Worksop we tend to see thefts of different types of gift sets.

"Shoplifting reduces business profits so I ask that if you witness a thief at work in a shop, please alert staff", says Worksop Business Forum chairman Philip Jackson."Shoplifting reduces business profits so I ask that if you witness a thief at work in a shop, please alert staff", says Worksop Business Forum chairman Philip Jackson.
"Shoplifting reduces business profits so I ask that if you witness a thief at work in a shop, please alert staff", says Worksop Business Forum chairman Philip Jackson.

Shoplifting reduces business profits so I ask that if you witness a thief at work in a shop, please alert staff.

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The Business Forum continues to work with North Notts BID to create this year’s Christmas light switch-on event.

This year’s event takes place on November 23 with entertainment and stalls from 12noon. The stage will have local schools and groups, finishing with an ABBA tribute and fireworks.

The Worksop Charter Trustees will again sponsor the children’s tree and decoration stall and Santa will also be joining us to switch the lights on.

For further information about the work of Worksop Business Forum email [email protected]

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