Ratby Road shops

August 2014

Wilsons re-opened as a convenience store on the 4th August 2016.

August 2009

Leasing problems halt Ratby Road scheme

Back in May 2005 the Spotlight published details of a proposed enhancement scheme to the forecourt of the area outside Barclays, Wilsons and Mark Jarvis on Ratby Road in the centre of the village. The plan, which was subject to consultation, was designed to visually improve both the area generally and specifically safety and disabled access. A new stone wall was suggested along with new planters to replace the existing wooden ones and a central hanging basket feature. The steps would be relaid and new handrails fitted. Improvements to disabled access had taken place at Barclays and subject to obtaining their permission it was hoped to extend these to the two other businesses. Although there was general agreement on the need for improvement there were, however, objections to various aspects of the proposals including the hanging basket feature and it was acknowledged that there would need to be some fine tuning.

Four years on and the Parish Council is still hoping that a scheme can be undertaken as pedestrian safety is of particular concern as there have been continuing reports of accidents outside the shops. In order to obtain funding the Council has sought to acquire an interest in the land such as a lease at a peppercorn rent, but members of the Council have been told that it has not yet been possible to achieve this. The scheme falls within Groby Conservation Area and has the support of both the Parish and Borough Councils.

Groby Parish Council has expressed its concern over the health and safety aspect of the land and the lack of handrails and disabled access for two of the shops. It seems that parishioners have also drawn attention to the safety issues and children cycling on the crazy paving. If the Parish Council has control over the land not only could it apply for grant aid to fund an improvement scheme but the Council would also take over its future maintenance and the health and safety responsibility.

Wilsons Newsagents, who own their shop and the forecourt immediately outside has expressed disappointment at this latest turn of events. “We believe this scheme would greatly benefit the area,” said Greg Wilson. “We have always been very enthusiastic about improvements to safety and disabled access and hope that ultimately the scheme will go ahead and villagers will benefit when they visit us, the bank or the betting shop.”

August 2009