Plans to transfer £17,800 to the Acomb Alive group of local businesses from City of York Council will be considered next Tuesday (12th April).

The council had previously decided that £30,000 was to be spent on Front Street. Since then, £12,200 has been spent or earmarked for schemes such as installing planters, benches, Christmas tress and lights. The report proposes moving the remaining funding to Acomb Alive.

Cllr Keith Aspden, Liberal Democrat Executive Member for Economic Development and Community Engagement, said:

“Moving the remaining resources closer to the Acomb Alive group will help to empower local businesses to improve Acomb Front Street and the surrounding areas. This will help local traders provide better services to residents in the community.”

Sue Hunter, Liberal Democrat Councillor for Westfield and Chair of Acomb Alive, said:

“As Chair of Acomb Alive, I am glad that funding is being considered to support our work with businesses. Our group want to promote the area to make it more attractive and encourage residents to shop locally, and investment to help us do this is very welcome. New environmental improvements such as planters and benches have already been added and now we hope to be able to achieve even more.

“I have also launched a campaign calling for improvements to the damaged and uneven sections of pavement on Front Street, which are a hazard particularly for elderly residents and those who use wheelchairs or mobility scooters. I have had lots of support from residents and business owners, and I hope that more local people will sign my petition and back the campaign.”

Sue’s petition on improving footpaths on Front Street can be found here: www.yorklibdems.org.uk/frontstreet