To whom it may concern,

We, the residents of Derriford and the surrounding area support and use the Derriford Stores. They provides an invaluable service- providing everyday essentials to our community and homes to our local businesses. We implore you to reconsider your stance on the rent for the building and work with the local businesses to come to an agreement that suits both yourself, the local businesses, and the community both parties serve.

Speaking to local shop owners and residents, it has come to our attention that the owner of the Premier on Upland Drive recently had his rent increased from around £16,000 to £28,000! On top of this he pays additional costs like service charges, maintenance fees and electric bills which have increased under the current cost of living crisis. Finally, the landlords have stated that to tarmac the car park and fix the roof, an additional £70,000 in costs will be split between the store owners over the next 3 years.

Other businesses in the building are in similar situations, with some of their current leases due to expire in the next few years and the daunting increase of rent threatening their livelihoods. Our amazing local shop owners won’t be able to break even at these costs whilst still offering us fair product prices and paying staff fair wages. 

We fight as a community to protect our local businesses! Residents in the area claim these shops provide an invaluable service to their local community, giving access to every day essentails at affordable prices.

Together, the local Labour and Conservative parties are working hard on this cross party issue to do what we can to save these businesses so they can continue to serve the community. 

Please lend us your support, by signing our petition.