Paul Kennedy's view

"We're lucky to live in one of the most beautiful parts of the country, but we have seen a decline in the viability of our high streets in recent years years", says local councillor and campaigner, Paul Kennedy.

"The underlying causes of this decline are numerous and complex but closures of local businesses, shops and pubs can be related to high business rates, a lack of infrastructure and Brexit." He added, "If we are to have vibrant town and village centres we need good local services such as schools, medical facilities and bus services."

"To revive our market towns and villages so that people want to live, visit and spend time in them takes vision."

Paul is encouraged by the work of the local Lib Dem Council, which is taking initiatives with projects to transform our towns into places where people of all ages can shop, eat, relaxand have fun, as well as providing affordable homes within walking distance of the centre.

Paul also voiced concerns about recent police cuts. "As an MP, I will press for better funding. Crime and antisocial behaviour can be effectively reduced by improved visibility of community police. We need our towns lively, but we want them safe too."

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