A collection of independent businesses in Barrow are facing closure amid moves by the council to regenerate the town centre.
The ginnel between the bottom of Portland Walk and the top of Dalton Road is due to be demolished as part of the Levelling Up Fund-backed revamp.
The council said it was currently working with three tenants to identify options for relocation.
Angela Edney, who runs The Candle Box, said, however, that the size of the shop and the rent she paid were currently ‘perfect for business’.
“The difficulty is my shop suppliers insist I have a bricks and mortar shop, meaning I am unable to trade on a market stall – the council’s intention – as this would diminish the products I sell,” she said.
“The council are working with me to find a suitable small shop but we are both at the conclusion that, if it isn’t possible, I will have to cease trading.”
She said she had received no positive feedback from customers regarding the demolition of the ginnel to make way for a green area.
Accessories store Got It Covered also faces an uncertain future, but co-director Alan Elrick is remaining upbeat.
“I have been a project manager myself in previous jobs and I understand that people don’t like change,” he said. “The town centre needs to move on and it needs some regeneration, which is going to happen.
“I have got a fantastic little business here and I have got a lot of lovely customers. I have been here for 17 and a half years. If I can afford to find another shop in the town centre, I’ll do my utmost to stay as a trader.”
A council spokesman said affected businesses would receive compensation in line with the terms of their lease.
“The council has been engaging with these businesses since the development of the project,” said the spokesman.
“Those affected will remain in their premises until after Christmas.
“During that time, the council will provide support for these businesses to relocate to alternative premises.”
