Student call to save the local shop (Leeds Liberal Democrats)

Leeds Liberal Democrats <info@leedslibdems.org.uk>

Student call to save the local shop

September 7, 2009 12:00 AM

Councillors are backing a student run campaign to support local businesses in Headingley.

Members of Leeds Met Students' Union are attempting to raise awareness of the range and diversity of shops and services available in the Headingley area.

Small specialist shops are suffering in the current economic climate due to large supermarkets and chain stores. It is hoped that this campaign will get students shopping locally.

The campaigners plan to distribute information at this years Freshers' Festival and advertise the campaign on beer mats in the pubs and bars along the Otley Run. Their plan is to target new students as well as educate and change the shopping habits of existing students.

A mini directory containing all of the shops has been produced complete with a map. Local businesses have been asked to give their feedback. The official launch of the campaign will be at the Freshers' Festival.

Cllr James Monaghan (Lib Dem, Headingley) said:

"Students play an important role in the economy. Getting them to shop locally is vital especially in this current economic climate. Headingley has so much to offer. I'm sure once people read the leaflet they will see that everything they need is right on their doorstep."

Cllr Martin Hamilton (Lib Dem, Headingley) added:

"The Leeds Met Students' Union members and community reps have done a valuable job so far. It is great to see students supporting their local community and businesses. As councillors we have offered to help the campaign in anyway we can."