TRADERS in Barry will receive a massive boost after Barry Town Councillors agreed that £50,000 would be invested into its ShopLocal campaign.

The town council finance committee this week (Monday, January 16) sanctioned the funding following a meeting of the ShopLocal group on Thursday, January 12.

The ShopLocal Barry group was established to promote local independent traders and local businesses within Barry. It is made up of a group of local traders and local councillors.

The campaign aims to make residents and visitors aware of what shops and services are available in Barry.

It focuses on High Street, Broad Street, Island Road, Vere Street, Main Street, Holton Road, Thompson Street and Park Crescent.

ShopLocal group chairman Howard Hamilton said: “Barry Town Council is delighted to be able to earmark £50,000 for the ShopLocal campaign and show commitment to local traders and independent businesses across Barry.

"We are hopeful that by working in partnership with local traders, we can support the local economy and raise the profile of Barry’s shopping areas.

"In the coming months, the group will be exploring marketing, branding, signage and learning from other towns which have run similar campaigns.

"This is about working together to keep the Barry pound circulating in Barry and we hope that this council’s investment will contribute to a successful and sustainable partnership with local traders.”

The Barry & District News is working with the ShopLocal group as part of its ongoing Your High Street: Use it or Lose it campaign.

A spokeswoman for Barry Town Council said there were numerous advantages to be gained from promoting local business.

She said: "Studies have proved that the community’s economic base is boosted by shopping with local traders.

"Shopping locally adds to the community’s character and tourism benefits with visitors seeking distinct places to shop and eat.

"The environment benefits and more local jobs are created. The businesses offer better service having got to know customers’ needs.

"Business owners live in their communities and invest in them. The taxpayer benefits with comparatively little infrastructure needed as opposed to national chains.

"Small businesses cater for local demand rather than what national chains dictate and also encourage more entrepreneurs and skilled workers who are more likely to invest and settle in communities that preserve their one-of-a-kind businesses and distinctive character."