Doors are open for business in Darlington

More local businesses in Darlington are reopening their doors as shoppers return to the town centre.

After more than 100 days of lockdown, and as restrictions are eased, more and more shoppers have returned to enjoy the wide range of shops in the town.

A social media campaign on Darlington Borough Council’s Facebook pages and on the #LoveDarlo page, supported by the council, is promoting local businesses as they open their doors, reaching more than 72,000 social media users.

Feedback from traders has been positive. CleanCare, a laundry and dry cleaning specialist shop on Skinnergate, said “At CleanCare, also trading as Jonathans, we are trying our best to return to a normal service as we welcome our customers back.”

Designer Playground, a children’s clothes boutique previously in Clarks Yard, commented: “We embraced the lockdown period as a chance to move into a new larger unit on Stonebridge. We are thrilled to welcome our customers back.”

Extra signage around the town centre serves to remind people to observe social distancing and shop safely. Shoppers have also been able to take advantage of free parking in council run car parks and on street bays.

Councillor Alan Marshall, Darlington Borough Council’s cabinet member for economy, said: “I am delighted to hear that trading has gone well in the first few weeks of reopening the town centre.

“Local traders are adapting well to the circumstances, including both signage to help with distancing in queues and readily available hand sanitiser. Together with considerate visitors, they’ve made sure that Darlington is a safe place to shop and visit.

“I’m confident that local businesses will get back on their feet after these tough times, and I ask that residents support these businesses and their town centre by shopping safely and locally.”

To help spread the word that they are open for business, local traders can send images and news for use on social media to: [email protected]

For more information on what shops are opening in the town centre, please visit: www.enjoydarlington.com