Rachael Maskell has organised a business summit to address the challenges facing city centre retailers, following a series of visits to shops.
The York Central MP visited Marks & Spencer on Pavement yesterday (Tuesday) where she met manager Kirstie Walsh and other staff, and discussed recent developments at the store.
The conversation focused on the current pressures facing retailers, including the rise in crime which has become a growing concern in many parts of the city.
Having met with both large and small businesses across the city centre, Ms Maskell has now arranged a meeting for York’s business community on Thursday 28 August at 2pm, held at a city centre venue yet to be named.
The meeting will give business owners a platform to raise concerns, particularly around retail crime, and explore how responses can be improved to help prevent future incidents.
At the meeting the Labour MP will also discuss navigation around the city, access to public toilets, and business finances.
She also hopes to hear from businesses about their hopes and aspirations for the city centre.
The meeting will be attended by York and North Yorkshire Mayor David Skaith, the British Retail Consortium, Make It York, York BID and Indie York.
Rachael Maskell MP says: “There are always issues to address and I am hoping that my summer summit on city centre businesses will provide a useful platform for determining how we can better support businesses and the public in York.
“It is vital that our city works for everyone, and it is important to gather to discuss key issues and review progress.”
Businesses in York can RSVP to attend the meeting through this link.