Local politicians have shared their views after three Triangle businesses announced plans to close.

 

Last week came news that both Soca Shack and Bitterne Park Stores will be shutting up shop, and The Songbird cafe announced last month that it will be closing in April.

Owners cited various pressures, including inflation and competition.

The closures could leave a string of vacant units along the east side of Manor Farm Road, including the former butcher’s - latterly Piper’s Emporium, which moved away over a year ago.

The area’s MP and Bitterne Park resident Darren Paffey (Lab),  pictured left, acknowledged the “real challenges” being faced by many traders, but said that as a regular visitor to the Triangle over many years, he remained optimistic about its future.

“Alongside the difficulties, we’re also seeing opportunities, with Comptons’ recent opening which has breathed new life into a vacant property, and an exciting relaunch for Riverside Diner in just the last few months.

“I’ll keep meeting with local businesses and I’m always happy to do what I can to support them by ensuring the government hears their concerns, backing them through my annual small business awards, and sitting down with business leaders through my regular action forums.”

Bitterne Park ward councillor Phil Webb (Lab), pictured right, said that for three small businesses to announce closure in such a short space of time clearly reflects the pressures small retailers and hospitality venues are facing, but that The Triangle remains a “strong local centre”.

He noted current pressures on businesses, from energy bills and rents to business rates and competition, and pointed to the “very real personal and mental pressures” owners can also carry.

He also highlighted the council’s range of free support to traders via its GROW portal, and said councillors had recently met the Triangle Traders group, which is focused on making the area vibrant and attracting footfall.

“It’s also worth noting that not all news is negative,” he said, adding that The Songbird unit could be reopening as a new business, Soca Shack are continuing as a catering firm and the Bitterne Box Co will continue with its delivery service.

“I wish all of them every success in their next chapter,” he said.

“Bitterne Park Triangle remains a strong local centre with a loyal customer base and real community spirit. I’m confident new businesses will see the opportunity here, and I’ll continue working with traders and residents to support a thriving local high street.”

• Southampton City Council offers a support programme for traders through its Help 4 High Streets scheme, which it says "offers tailored advice and support for high street businesses, including guidance on resilience, business planning, and adapting to changing trading environments".