Chain store creating new jobs in Lyme Regis (From Bridport and Lyme Regis News)

Chain store creating new jobs in Lyme Regis

12:00pm Thursday 20th September 2012 in Lyme Regis

COSTA Coffee has moved into Broad Street, Lyme Regis , creating around a dozen jobs.

But while the town’s traders would rather see a national chain than an empty shop they would still prefer an independent shop.

Tony Colston, chairman of the Lyme Traders Organisation said: “I think it is not good for Lyme Regis to have empty shops so having them occupied is better for the town.

“While it is unfortunate that it is not a local independent it is better than having an empty shop.

“It is giving employment to local people.

“In one way it is a good sign that the brand names are coming to Lyme but in another way it is unfortunate because it is another milestone into turning Lyme into just another town centre which is regrettable.”

He said traders would be happy to be able to afford not to welcome chains, realistically in the current economic climate there was no alternative.

He added: “The current economy and the rates and rents makes it all very challenging for local businesses to set up and operate.

“While the rents in Lyme are much of a muchness with other towns it is the seasonality of Lyme that makes it that much more challening.

“If you don’t make it in the summer months you are dead.”

A spokesman for Costa said: “Costa is really pleased to be joining the Lyme Regis community.

“Between 10 and 12 baristas will be employed and trained to be coffee experts in the true Italian sense.

“Costa stores always support their local communities and the Lyme Regis store will be no exception.

“Following our opening we will be contacting local groups such as parent and toddler classes, church groups and youth projects to inform them that we are happy to host events for them.

“We will also place a community notice board in store to promote local events that are taking place.”