Christmas lights and shopping local

As the nights get darker and the weather gets colder, Christmas is getting increasingly close. This means that the annual Christmas light switch on season is just around the corner. The first event is tonight in Clockhouse, with other small events taking place in high streets across the borough. The main borough event will be on Sutton High Street on 27 November, with events running from 12-6pm and will include live music, dance performances and activities for everyone.

Joining the Christmas lights events this winter provides an opportunity to visit some of the local businesses we have in Sutton. It has been great to see so many residents out supporting local businesses, particularly in recent months as the pandemic has meant more of a focus on staying local. The last 18 months have been particularly tough for small businesses in the borough and so it is important that we recognise their place at the heart of Sutton’s local economy.

The pandemic has caused uncertainty in all areas of business. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in particular are the backbone of the economy, comprising over 99% of all businesses in Sutton. As a Council, we have been working with local businesses to ensure they have the right tools and guidance to remain open in a way that is safe for everyone, and we have offered support to those that are struggling.

The number and variety of small businesses in Sutton is something to celebrate. In Sutton, along with many other areas across the UK, we will be marking Small Business Saturday on 4 December. I encourage you to go out and explore some of what is on offer on your local high street - it will be a good opportunity to pick up Christmas gifts in the knowledge that you are supporting Sutton’s small businesses. If you own a small business and would like to get involved, or would simply like to know more, then visit the Small Business Saturday website for more information.

I am keen to continue working with businesses and residents to ensure that the local economy remains strong and our businesses thrive throughout the festive period and beyond.

Councillor Jayne McCoy