Friday 21st April – The 3 P’s

by | Apr 21, 2023 | Blog, Garforth | 0 comments

Perception, Perceive, and Procrastinate – why they may stop you from using your local high street,

The perception of high streets can vary greatly among people, often being considered the heart and soul of a community. For some, high streets evoke nostalgia with memories of bustling marketplaces, quaint shops, and friendly faces. They see high streets as vibrant hubs of activity, fostering a sense of community and belonging by providing opportunities for locals and visitors alike to shop, dine, and socialise.  Garforth has grown and still is.

On the other hand, there are those who view high streets through a more critical lens, expressing concerns about perceived changes. They may see high streets as struggling, with declining footfall and increasing commercialisation from chain stores, leading to a loss of local businesses, unique character, and distinct identity. However, in Garforth, we are fortunate to have a well-balanced mix of chain and independent businesses, maintaining the charm and diversity of our high street.

There may also be those who procrastinate going to the high street due to concerns about sustainability, environmental impact, overconsumption, and reliance on car-based transportation. However, in Garforth, we have organisations like the Garforth Planning Forum and Eco-Friendly Garforth that are actively working towards sustainable initiatives.

Living in a small town has its perks, such as tight-knit communities, friendly neighbours, and a sense of familiarity wherever you go. But it also comes with its quirks and peculiarities, especially when it comes to the unique mindsets of small-town folks.

The Town Gossip Grapevine: In a small town, word travels faster than the speed of light. You can’t sneeze without your neighbour down the street knowing about it or that time you took several poo bags and your dog pooped more than several times, now it’s all over the local social media pages.

The “Everyone Knows Everyone” phenomenon: Small towns create a sense of familiarity among their residents. You can’t go to the greengrocers without bumping into at least three people you know. For me, when I go out shopping, you can bet my 5-minute errand lasts an hour as I chat with various locals and business owners about their families, pets, and other quirky locals. It’s a unique experience where everyone seems to know everyone, and you’re constantly greeted with friendly nods and waves wherever you go.

In small towns, traffic jams are a rare occurrence, but when they do happen, they can be quite comical. You know those people who can’t be bothered to use the zebra crossing 3 yards away, so they squeeze through several cars to cross over and think that holding their walking stick in the air merits the role of a lollypop lady/man.

The “Everything Closes Early” Dilemma: In small towns, businesses tend to close early, and some still have half-day or all-day closing on a Wednesday, harkening back to the 80s. Just get more staff! It’s not uncommon to find most shops shuttered by 5 pm on weekdays, and we’re not a retail park. However, luckily many of our shops are online, or you can order or enquire through their social media platforms – so it is changing.

Working for our local villages in and around Garforth, I’m always committed to changing perceptions and stopping procrastination when it comes to supporting local businesses. We aim to help maintain our high street and keep it growing into a thriving and inclusive destination for residents and visitors alike to eat, grow, buy, be happy, and socialise. We want to encourage you to shop local and change your mindset about using businesses in and around the high street, as it is beneficial not only to you but also to the place you have chosen to live. So, change your inner program and support local businesses first.

 

Wednesday Vlog

If you missed this week’s vlog, you can catch up here, The Covid episode : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gdOIrQ2HdLM

What’s on

  • Tonight – The Pizza Box will be in attendance at The Gaping Goose from 5.30 until sold out
  • Saturday 22nd  – Sewn Sweet Sewn will be at The Factory Shop from 10.30 am – 4.00 pm selling all her beautiful handmade and reusable goods
  • Saturday 22nd – Incredible Edible Garforth – Wildlife Garden from 10.30 am (Oak Grove)

 

 

  • Saturday 22nd  – Garforth Methodist Church from 6,00pm East Bunny Drive

What’s coming up

  • Friday 28th April – Garforth Parish Cricket Club, Green Lane  OPEN DAY EVENT 11 am- 1 pm – WALKING CRICKET for all ages and abilities and then weekly thereafter – Contact by email emma.theaker@icloud.com

  • Friday 28th April Book on to their POP UP New York Kitchen – email to book: bechamelmarketkitchen@gmail.com

  • Thursday 11th May  – Thermal Cook Bag making with Dawn from Sewn Sweet Sewn – 10 am – 3.00 pm at The Courtyard, Scarthingwell Centre (BRING YOUR OWN SEWING MACHINE)

 

 

Planning

  • (Another fountain pen going up then) Determination for removal of the existing telecommunications equipment and installation of a 25m swan monopole supporting 6 antennas and 2 equipment cabinets and development ancillary thereto at Bridges Estate, Lotherton Way, Garforth

 

 

 

Until next week – Changing your perceptions is really easy… and it’s beneficial to you… Do you know what’s not beneficial, having caught Covid for the second time round – bleagh

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