A BUSINESS that has been trading for more than 20 years in Colwyn Bay is closing its doors.

Neil Wood, who owns Wood's on Sea View Road, a shop that sells cards and gifts, has reduced the price of his stock ahead of the closure.

He said he is shutting up shop as he feels there is little support for independent shops like Wood's. He also believes that "crime, theft and  antisocial behaviour" is putting customers off the town. 

Mr Wood said: "I'm leaving because of the lack of improvement in the area and lack of support and help for independent shops by the council for shops like mine.

"Footfall has dropped over the years as Colwyn Bay has become an undesirable place to shop. With crime, theft and antisocial behaviour, people stay away and find other places to shop."

"Bayview [Shopping Centre] parking went to two hours, so people stay in there and have just enough time to shop in the centre. It used to be all day parking. That gave customers a chance to look around the town and support independent retailers, that is why the likes of the Manshop have moved inside the centre."

Mr Wood feels the plot of land next to Wetherspoon could be used for parking or parking for coaches. 

He added: "There is also the lack of compensation. When my business was hit with the re-development of the street pacing around the town, for 22 weeks customers couldn't get to my shop, but I still had all my regular bills to pay and a start up loans for the business. 

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"Again, we were left to fend for ourselves and the debt with no help financially. This time period was a disaster for local business.

"We have regular customers far and wide from Wrexham to Anglesey and I have built my business on word of mouth, trust and loyalty.

"I would like thank everyone that supported me over the years trading in the Bay"

Wood's will be have a vast range of welsh cards available.

Neil added: "Now is the time to come and stock up.

"All shop fittings are up for sale, including shop counters shelving card stands security mirrors etc."

The business expects to close in about three weeks time.