'Enormous concern' over Northampton businesses missing out on the usual pre-Christmas boom

Northampton businesses missing out on the usual pre-Christmas boom and individuals depressed by the lack of festive activities because of coronavirus restrictions 'enormously concerns' the council leader.

Northampton Borough Council leader Jonathan Nunn hopes more firms can reopen and liberties will be restored after the lockdown but insisted protecting lives must come first.

Asked about the impact on the loss of yuletide trade and events, he told a virtual press conference yesterday (Friday, November 20): "It's enormously concerning.

"So many retailers make a huge proportion of their profits to get through the rest of the year from Christmas so the impact will be huge.

"But, as we have had to throughout the pandemic, we've got to balance saving lives with supporting the economy, which is awful.

"Any way we can get them open safely the better - I am supportive of the lockdown but I feel the pain they are suffering."

Cllr Nunn admitted that if there was ever a year where a normal Christmas was needed for than ever, it would be 2020 but it is important to keep the infection rate down.

The Conservative councillor said the virus might 'spread like billy-o' after the lockdown if people go back to normal so urged residents to respect the restrictions.

"Christmas is usually a time for over-indulgence where you regret things for weeks afterwards but if we get together it could have a serious impact," he said.

"We could be in an even deeper situation in the early part of next year if that happened and wouldn't that be awful?

"So do be mindful that this has not gone away and let's do everything we can to stick to the rules."

Cllr Nunn acknowledged that it is up to the government what the restrictions will be from December 2, and what tier Northampton would be in should that system return.

But he said he was pleased local authorities would be getting more powers to enforce the rules and stop anyone who is breaking them.

"I often get asked about what we're doing about businesses and people not keeping us safe but I promise we will do everything we can to make the town as safe as possible," he said.

Cllr Nunn urged owners of any Northampton businesses that pay property costs to apply for a new set of grants which have only recently been made available.

He said around 200 had already applied and received the cash so any others who are yet to ask should contact the council.

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