Town councillors have been discussing various strategies to help traders while the construction work in the area continues.

A fall in the number of shoppers in that area of town is being pinned on the construction work and closure of the Talisman Square car park.
Businesses in Millar Court are still facing the fear of closure due to a drop in passing trade.

In September the Weekly News reported that some traders did not expect to last until the new Waitrose development and despite meetings and talks to solve the problem, the situation remains the same.

Other ideas outlined at the town council's planning meeting include extending the Christmas lights to the area and initiatives such as rate relief for the traders.

Coun Pat Ryan informed members that at a Kenilworth Town Partnership meeting earlier this month, the traders were advised by a county council representative of a number of initiatives to relieve the situation, this included the suggestion that rates could be reclaimed retrospectively.

But shop owner Karen Everitt of Let's Create in Millar Court said: "Trade is still awful. There is no one passing by and popping in. After the summer holidays my business usually gets very busy.

"This time of year should be my busiest as everyone is thinking about Christmas and making greeting cards.

"It's so important for people to realise how crucial this is. All the businesses in Millar Court are in the same situation and I just want to say we are all still here."

And Karen says that the idea of claiming compensation or rate relief after the work may too late for her business.

Plans to help the traders are still in talks and the county council is seeking to arrange a meeting between a specialist adviser and traders to discuss various strategies to alleviate the situation.

Other suggestions include a pro-active advertising campaign.