Support for small businesses in Chester has been put in the limelight as part of the Liberal Democrats’ campaign for the City of Chester by-election.
On Saturday, Liberal Democrat candidate Rob Herd was joined by North Shropshire MP and Department for Levelling Up spokesperson Helen Morgan to speak to small business owners in the city centre.
There are 2,280 small and medium-sized businesses in the City of Chester constituency, from family-owned high street shops to hairdressers, including 155 cafes, restaurants, pubs and other hospitality businesses.
The Liberal Democrats have been calling for more support for small businesses, many of whom are struggling with record energy prices and spiralling inflation.
Before becoming a local teacher, Rob was the General Manager of a bar and restaurant in the city centre. He said, “One of the reasons I’m so proud to live here in Chester is the rich diversity of small businesses, especially in the city centre. We need to do all we can to protect them and help them thrive.
“As well as supporting them in this current economic climate, we also need a positive vision for the future of our city. Too many local businesses are struggling with poor internet access, and our city needs to be much better connected by train to Manchester and Liverpool, with direct services to London restored.”
Helen Morgan said, “I was delighted to spend the day in Chester with Rob. It’s clear he’s no career politician, but cares deeply about the future of his city. He’d be a first class Member of Parliament for Chester.”
The Chester blog 