Why did I start the petition?
I came up with the idea and started the petition after wanting to expand my business but given the cost of living crisis, retail rental prices on top of personal financials that a retail unit within the centre wasn't feasible which is the case for many.
I think Fargo is a great inspiration showing that we can offer many local businesses the opportunity of smaller, more affordable units which would be more flexible, bring more businesses to the town centre thus more footfall and being more cost effective.
What is my petition goal?
To be able to offer a more permanent space for our wonderful variety of local independents, crafters, makers and bakers similar to Fargo Village, Coventry. It would be an indoor market hosting local vendors new and old, live entertainment, community check in groups to tackle loneliness, sustainable clothing, events, food and drink, cafes being supplied by local bakers and encouraging recycling and less use of plastics and a pay forward scheme for food and drink for those in need.
What would it be called?
The Collective.
I asked the other independents and local residents of Rugby to create poll suggestions and vote for their favorite name.
I believe this name fits well as a collective is a group of entities that share or are motivated by at least one common issue or interest, or work together to achieve a common objective; which I'd exactly what all our independents are working towards.
What do I need?
I am seeking a space for this project to be situated and support from the relevant people at Rugby Borough Council to help push this project forwards.
I have recieved a great response from local press,independents and councilors and will continue to pursue the idea further.
I achieved a good number of petition signatures in a very short space of tim and the support of Vicki Corrigan - The Nest, Rugby First, Wayne Rabin, Debbie Gallacher-Gallachers Wine Merchants, Louise Fordham - Bespoke hairdressing, Mayor Maggie O'rouke, Michael Moran, The Rugby Advertiser, the wonderful crafting community that I'm a part of and BBC CWRT who have asked me to attend a live interview along with many more.
Where could it be located?
Gas street car park. The town centre regeneration project does mention the car park. This would tie in well with Art at the Alex for local artists to attend and offers parking right behind the current multi story for people wanting to attend where the market would be situated.
What is the vision?
My idea for the site would include small and eye catching retail pods offering more permanent spots for regular traders to set up their pop up store along with more flexible pop up stalls.
The area would offer food, gifts, entertainment and workshops to tackle loneliness and mental health within the community.
We would encourage sustainability and recently come across a small local business offering sustainable recycled clothing and love the idea of hosting events similar to the vintage kilo sales, everywhere we grow and much more!
A stage offering live entertainment from local bands, Rugby theater, Rugby college performing arts students, impact dance along with bingo, quizzes and much more!
I'd also like to have a cafe offering a pay forward scheme where the residents and staff could redeem purchased food and drink donations, recyclable and reusable cups. This could also be run or supplied by local bakers/coffee/tea suppliers.
I'd like to have a a community hub/seating area to tackle loneliness by hosting regular groups e.g. knitting and crochet, mum groups, carers groups etc. and mental health check ins and support.
The building would have disabled access, toilets inside including baby changing facilities. The toilets would be stocked with female hygiene products and be open to the public to use.
I'm searching for a premises with outdoor space which could host food and drink vendors similar to The Square, Dunchurch and available parking.
Why is it important and how would it boost the town?
As a resident and small business owner in our community, I believe that small businesses are hugely beneficial to our economy and contribute significantly to the growth and development of our small town.
It is becoming increasingly difficult for these businesses to own or lease a retail space due to high costs in the town centre.
69% of small business owners say that the cost of commercial real estate is their biggest concern. This makes it challenging for them to establish themselves in prime locations or expand their operations.
I urge local authorities and property owners to offer more affordable spaces for local businesses to own or lease.
Studies have shown that when small businesses thrive, they contribute positively towards economic growth and development.
This would be hugely beneficial to our town opening up many job opportunities, increasing the towns footfall, support businesses expansion and revive our wonderful little town.
This concept gives back to the community, boosts footfall; there would be a wider variety and increase in businesses thus attracting people to the town, boosting the market expansion with CJS events, it would revive the town and give people who aren't as financially well equipped the opportunity of starting/expanding.
There are so many independents who can't afford a full priced retail unit that it would hugely benefit. I believe many new businesses will start and existing ones will expand if this idea is given the green light.
