Local shops that were facing rent hikes from the council of over 120% brought their case to Wednesday’s council assembly.

For 6 months they have been effectively threatened with closure, and say that despite attempts to engage with their local Labour councillors and cabinet member,
the lack of support was frustrating.

The local Liberal Democrats stepped in to amplify their campaign. Group leader Cllr Chamberlain wrote to the council raising their concerns in May, and Cllr
Hood submitted a written question on the subject. Cllr Chamberlain received a reply to his letter just last week, and the group finally received the news that the council would “start fresh” with the rent settlements just the day before their council assembly
deputation.

The council’s concession marks a win for the shops and local community, but at the deputation the shop owners said that they were still dissatisfied with
the poor communication and length of time it took to get to this stage.

Commenting, Southwark Liberal Democrat Local Economy Spokesperson Cllr Rachel Bentley said:

“This is a huge win for the local community, and I’m pleased that local Liberal Democrats were able to support their campaign to save these vital shops. But it’s just
the first step, and it’s appalling that it took this long, and that the concession was made at the last minute to avoid embarrassment at a public meeting. It’s clear that Labour are no friend of small, local businesses, and we will continue to champion the
local economy here in Southwark”