Tougher at '˜top end', say Halifax town centre traders

Ben Asquith and Andrew Merrifield, who own neighbouring stores Retrogue and Mezza Muscle Lab respectively, say that whilst business is good, they believe the streets around their premises require more attention.

“We’re the sort of place that people come to out of their way to an extent,” said Ben, who’s shop sells vintage and retro clothing, “but it would be nice to have some of the empty premises filled.

“Shops do bounce off one another and it would be good to get some more footfall up here. Whether it’s lowering business rates or grants or whatever, it’d be good to see.”

Andrew, a former Great British bodybuilding champion who’s sports nutrition business started in the Piece Hall 18 years ago, said that the top of town is yet to see the benefit of its £19 million regeneration.

“I wouldn’t go back there,” he said, “I’ve been down there and it looks good, but I think I’d have preferred to see that money spread out a bit more. It is quieter up here.”

Their calls come in the weeks after the area around nearby Bull Green was included in plans for a £40 million regeneration of Halifax town centre.

Speaking at the time, Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Strategy, Councillor Barry Collins, said: “The submission of the planning application is the next step in exciting planned improvements for Halifax town centre.”