Group takes a firm stance for traders

Published on Wednesday 26 November 2008 09:08

THE Leith Walk and Constitution Street Traders Association has cemented its position as the voice of local business with a new constitution and a change of name.

The group, now known as the Leith Business Association, grew out of a heated meeting of local traders in April with senior members of the Transport Initiative Edinburgh (TIE) board over reported losses resulting from the tram works.

Since then it has become the first port of call for local businesses seeking to air their grievances, and the main contact for councillors and officials seeking local opinions and looking to share information.

Alan Rudland, vice-chairman of the Leith Business Association, said: "We felt it was time we gave the association a punchier name, as the old one was a bit unwieldy.

"The new name also represents the broader scope we've achieved since our inception to include businesses other than retail.

"One of our first orders of business will be ensuring we take full advantage of the Christmas embargo on the tram works."