Website set up for Northampton businesses to declare they are open

Small businesses can list their takeaway services directly on the website at no added cost
Gareth has set the website up to bring attention to small businesses who are offering takeaway services to the community.Gareth has set the website up to bring attention to small businesses who are offering takeaway services to the community.
Gareth has set the website up to bring attention to small businesses who are offering takeaway services to the community.

Travel blogger Gareth O'Sullivan, 23, from Duston has set up a website where Northampton businesses can create a listing if they are still open.

It comes as Gareth could see social media forums, set up during the Covid-19 outbreak, struggling to keep up with the amount of questions being asked about business opening hours.

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The website, called 'Northampton Local' will act as an all-under-one-roof service where users can find takeaways in their area still delivering and shops operating a delivery service.

Gareth, who works in digital marketing, has been building websites since he was 15.Gareth, who works in digital marketing, has been building websites since he was 15.
Gareth, who works in digital marketing, has been building websites since he was 15.

Gareth said: "Supporting local businesses is vital during the current situation.

"I keep on seeing lots of posts in Facebook groups and on my newsfeed asking what shops are open, where to get specific items.

"I felt like we needed some sort of free resource available to everyone locally - a resource where people can visit online, on any device, at any time."

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Businesses can submit their listing to Gareth, which are placed into an approval system where they are checked to ensure all details are correct before going live.

Daily checks are made thereafter to monitor whether they will close.

He added: "There is no monetisation on this at all. It’s been created specifically for helping everyone in Northamptonshire during COVID-19.

"On each listing, you’ll find the local businesses information and contact details. During the creation of the site, I’ve kept in mind mobile experience and ensuring the site is as simple as it can be.

"I feel I’ve achieved this well and therefore all ages can access and understand how to navigate throughout the website."