I have been working actively on behalf of the local businesses whose trade has been seriously disrupted by the ongoing works at the former George Hotel.
Having visited the town centre on numerous occasions to witness the problems being caused as a result of the street closure and restricted parking I can fully understand the frustrations being voiced by many of the traders.
Many have been majorly impacted through a marked drop in footfall traffic.
Clearly something needs to be done to help those businesses and shops struggling as a direct result of the work being carried out.
With this in mind I have engaged with the Chief Executive of Dumfries and Galloway Council on several occasions to stress the importance of having such a scheme in place.
Quite why it has taken months down the line to get things to the consideration stage is disappointing to say the very least.
In stark contrast, I have also met with the Assessor Alex Clark who has been extremely understanding and helpful.
Furthermore I have also raised the matter with the Chief Executive of South of Scotland Enterprise and the Head of Economy and Environment for Dumfries and Galloway Council.
While the Rates Assessor has agreed that there needs to be some reduction in rates, I had hoped for greater progress in my call for a business support fund.
I advised the local authority almost six months ago how Edinburgh City Council introduced a similar support scheme to assist businesses impacted by the construction of the tram line through the city centre.
Thankfully the council has now confirmed that the Economic Development Team will consider options available to traders affected by the George Hotel development. But again, why the delay?
My hope is that they will now reach the conclusion that a support package is made available to assist those impacted by the upheaval being experienced by the ongoing work.
