This is Plea from Hemali Agraval from the sheerwater community representing local Businesses Post Office & Convenience store (Londis), May&Thomson (Pharmacy), Best Kebab ( Take Away). 

I am a proud member of the tight-knit community in Sheerwater, Woking. Our local post office, pharmacy, and takeaways are more than just buildings to us; they are the lifeblood of our neighborhood. These establishments are where we connect with each other, where we receive essential services that keep us healthy and informed. They represent the heart of what makes our community unique.

However, these vital institutions are under threat from WBC's regeneration scheme in Sheerwater. Small businesses like ours face closure due to this plan. The loss of these businesses would not only affect their owners but also have a significant impact on our community as a whole.

According to data from the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), small firms accounted for 99.3% of all private sector businesses at the start of 2020 and provided 61% employment in UK private sector (FSB UK). This clearly shows how crucial small businesses like ours are for local economies and communities.

We urge Woking Borough Council (WBC) to reconsider its regeneration scheme or provide adequate support for affected businesses so that they can continue serving our community without disruption.

Please sign this petition if you believe in preserving the heart and soul of Sheerwater by saving its local businesses from potential closure due to WBC's regeneration scheme.