A top cabinet member has come to Broadstone to hear the challenges facing local businesses. Michael Tomlinson, Prospective MP for Mid Dorset & North Poole, invited Francis Maude MP to Broadstone to meet key local business owners.
Francis Maude, who is Minister for the Cabinet Office and Paymaster General, joined Michael Tomlinson and members of the Broadstone Chamber of Trade and Commerce at Franco's Italian restaurant and discussed several factor affecting local businesses including car parking charges.
Michael Tomlinson said "I was delighted to welcome Francis Maude to Broadstone as it is vital for Government ministers to see how hard our local businesses are working. It is very impressive to see the work that the Chamber of Trade is doing to promote local businesses as they are the lifeblood of the local economy and a thriving high street is crucial.”
Simon Merry, Chairman of the Broadstone Chamber of Trade and Commerce said, “It was helpful to discuss our local strategy with Francis and Michael and to explore where Government and Council can best support, notably in terms of localised analysis and policies on how business rates and parking might operate to encourage the economy”.