posted 2.30pm Friday, 13 December
More shops have opened for business in Kirkby Lonsdale, following last weekend’s fatal fire in the town centre.
The emergency services have today moved the cordons as far back as it’s safe to do so, allowing more shops to reopen.
Allan Muirhead, Chair of the town’s Community Interest Company, said: ‘We have nothing but admiration for the emergency services and Westmorland and Furness Council officers, who have worked tirelessly and sympathetically to help the town return to normal.
‘Sadly, the area around the seat of the fire looks like being out of bounds for some considerable time, as hot spots are still being discovered at the site, and some adjacent buildings are still considered unsafe.
‘But visitors will find a warm welcome from our community, particularly the many independent shops who have worked hard to get back in business.
‘Visitors will find a range of shops open in both Main Street and a small part of Market Street, along with everyone open in Market Square and New Road.
‘We’re also grateful that all parking charges on council car parks have been removed for the rest of December, which is a welcome gesture to help our local economy.’
The Chairman of the Chamber of Trade, Robin Sadler, said: ‘The message is simple, Kirkby Lonsdale is open.’