Shop owners will get a chance to voice their opinions when the council meets next month to discuss its budget and business plan proposals.

Leader of the council, Stephen Alambritis will be at the Civic Centre on Wednesday, February 13 from 6pm to 7pm along with council officers and cabinet members to answer questions and address about the proposals for 2019/20 and the business plan for 2019-23.

“I am a small businessman myself and was spokesperson for the Federation of Small Businesses so I understand businesses and how vital they are to the economic success of the borough," Mr Alambritis said.

"As a council we have adopted a business-like approach to our services and to the financial decisions we have to make.

"So I value greatly all our discussions with the business community especially when we get to hear their thoughts on what we’re doing and how we can continue to make Merton a place that’s business-friendly.”

Are you the owner of a small business in Merton and have thoughts on what this plan might mean for you? Email us at riley.krause@newsquest.co.uk