"Lets Use Disused Shop for the Benefit of the Community"

"Lets Use Disused Shop for the Benefit of the Community" - Paul Harrod

November 9, 2007 1:00 PM

Paul Harrod, Liberal Democrat Prospective MP for Bristol North West, is backing calls from local residents to bring the disused shop on Bishopthorpe Road into local ownership.

With few local facilities in the area available for community groups and meetings this building, in a prime location, is being wasted while being kept empty. Despite numerous requests the local councillors have taken no action.

"The Government encourages local ownership of properties such as this", said Paul, "We could set up a trust which would guarantee the property was used for the benefit of the community, and perhaps make a bid to the Big Lottery Fund. I can't understand why the local councillors have stood idly by."

"As always there should be full consultation with local residents to find out what people would like to see the facility to be used for. But in the meantime I call on the Council to stop delaying and look into handing over the lease. It benefits no one to see this building lie empty."