High Peak MP is excited to see economy opening up again

Like so many others, I am excited to go out and support the local economy this summer.

Since the shops started reopening, I have enjoyed returning to High Peak’s brilliant local businesses and high streets.

I have dropped by itsy Bitsy in Chapel-en-le-Frith to get my sister a present, I got my dad a Father’s Day present from High Street Books in New Mills and I’ve visited Scrivener’s book shop and the fantastic local market in Buxton

I will also finally be able to get my hair cut again and I will also be shaving my lockdown beard for Crosslands Derbyshire, which does really important work to support victims of domestic violence.

You can sponsor me by clicking here.

I am also looking forward to my first pint at the local pub and one of the things I’ve missed most during lockdown has been the chance to visit the local and enjoy some excellent local beers.

In a few of days, it will be wonderful to see local pubs beginning to reopen and celebrate responsibly with them.

I realise there is still more to be done to get things back to normal in High Peak.

Many are frustrated about public toilets still being closed and as shops reopen it is crucial that public toilets also reopened to make shopping more enjoyable and accessible, especially for people with hidden disabilities.

I am pushing the Government to go further and make public toilets exempt from business rates to increase access.

These are promising signs of progress but we have to remain careful and continue to respect the rules.

It has been concerning to see reports of rising case numbers in the Peak District – while we have kept the virus down, we still have not beaten it.

By following social distancing guidance responsibly, we can ensure the Peak District is able to continue reopening.

We are through the worst of the crisis and by staying the course we will get through this.

Re-opening the local economy is essential to the prosperity of the High Peak and we can all do our bit by supporting local businesses in a responsible way.

Robert Largan is MP for High Peak.