Breckland Council launches campaign to welcome back people into the high streets

Breckland Council is urging shoppers to "enjoy, discover and explore" local market towns, such as Swaffham, in the run-up to Christmas.

The message is part of a new campaign to welcome residents and visitors back to the high streets as the latest period of restrictions comes to an end.

The country returns to a tiers system tomorrow, December 2, with Breckland placed in Tier 2 along with the rest of the county. This means non-essential retailers, such as clothing stores, cafés, gift shops and art galleries, will be able to reopen as long as social distancing measures are put in place.

Breckland has one of the lowest Covid-19 infection rates in East Anglia.

Breckland’s market towns have been busy preparing for reopening with several brand new shops opening on the high street for the first time and others undergoing refurbishment to offer a new – and safe – customer experience.

The council is calling on people to choose to shop local this Christmas, either in person or online, to help local businesses to remain viable during the traditionally busy festive period.

Over the last few weeks and months, Breckland Council has worked closely with local businesses to distribute grants and help them put in place measures to be Covid safe, including installing hand sanitiser, screens, one-way systems, as well as street signage, posters, and social media messaging.

Cllr Sam Chapman-Allen, leader of Breckland Council, said: “The recent restrictions have brought challenges for everyone and the whole year has been a tough trading period for many of our local shops.

"As our high streets reopen for business, I urge people to show their support by choosing to shop local throughout December, while being mindful of social distancing and guidance to keep everybody safe.

“Our vibrant market towns are packed with independent retailers offering fantastic customer service, unique products at great prices and of course our council-run car parks remain free to use. I hope as many people as possible will choose to explore, discover and enjoy their local high streets this Christmas.”

To help people support local traders, Breckland has launched a dedicated webpage to help promote shops in Swaffham, Thetford, Dereham, Watton and Attleborough, ensuring shoppers can view online the range of shops available and some of the products on offer from local high streets.

Find out more at www.breckland.gov.uk/shopping-in-breckland