Businesses in Perth’s Bridgend area have been fighting hard to overcome tough trading conditions and help rejuvenate the area.
In recent years the area has been the focus of much hard work and investment aimed at boosting its attractiveness to shoppers.
Crumbling buildings, lack of parking, the constant presence of busy traffic and the closure of the local post office have all been major causes for concern.
And Bridgend has found itself described by visitors, politicians and local councillors alike as “rundown” and “dilapidated.”
Efforts have been made to secure funding for its rejuvenation, but numerous projects put forward have foundered on the need to secure cash from additional sources.
While that has sadly not been forthcoming, businesses have worked hard to overcome those disadvantages.
There has also been a number of new ventures opening their doors, keen to see if they can play a role in the area’s future success.
Among those who have taken an interest in the efforts of local businesses is Perthshire North SNP candidate John Swinney, who toured the area in the company of local councillor Jack Coburn.ProblemsHe visited a number of businesses in Bridgend to hear about the problems businesss owners have faced and discuss the benefits received from the SNP’s Small Business Bonus.
Mr Swinney said, “I was delighted to have the opportunity to visit these businesses. For such a small area, there are a number of very different and diverse business operations from hat making to newsagents, from grocers and tea rooms to sign-makers.
“Everyone I met was hard-working and enthusiastic, and this is so important for business success.
“Their positive outlook and belief in their ventures was infectious and I’m sure that this helps to attract custom.
“Of course, a number of problems were highlighted to me, such as parking difficulties, the condition of empty buildings and the effect of the VAT increase.
“I will certainly try to work with colleagues to attempt to resolve these issues or seek to ease the difficulties.”
Mr Swinney added, “What I was pleased to hear about was how many of the businesses had benefited from the Small Business Bonus, introduced by the SNP Government.
“One of the businesses even said that the saving they made from not paying business rates had paid for a new boiler during the recent harsh winter.
“I would certainly encourage residents in Perth to come across the river to see what is in store in Bridgend and for other Perthshire residents to stop and have a look, instead of driving by.”