THERE will be a meeting in The Guildhall in Brecon next week to elect a new committee for Brecon Chamber of Trade.

The organisation is being restarted after a five year absence and 45 businesses have already expressed an interest in joining.

Brian Popsys, spokesman for the steering group that is setting up the chamber, said: "Brecon last had a Chamber of Trade in 2011 and since its demise there has been a significant and very visible decline in businesses investing in the town.

"Brecon has more empty shops than ever before, with many existing shops also considering their future – all businesses in the town very much have a vested interest in revitalising Brecon.

"Forty-five businesses have already expressed an interest in joining the new chamber of trade and we would encourage more to join us. A study has shown that there are about 160 business premises within the town, with over 15% of these currently empty.

"The more support that we can get for this initiative, the more influence we will have in discussions with other bodies that similarly have vested interests in the town returning to its former vibrant status."

Meetings have already been held with Brecon Town Council, Powys council and the Brecon Beacons National Park, which have all welcomed the relaunch of the chamber, said Mr Popsys.

As well as electing the new committee Thursday’s meeting will also discuss how the chamber can address issues facing Brecon.

"Parking in town is one of the key issues that many traders have raised and the steering group has already made inroads into addressing this for the new committee to take forward.

"The litter in town is similarly an issue that is raised often, and again the steering group has made the first steps towards finding a solution. Also business rates, empty shops and absentee landlords are on the agenda for the future to help get the town back on its feet.

"This is a real opportunity for the town traders to unite and work together for the good of their own businesses and for the good of the town. We are already building excellent relationships with the authorities on which we can build and do something very positive.

"So, if you are a long-time existing business, a new business in town or indeed a business considering investing in the town, we would like to meet you. Please don’t be shy, we need your enthusiasm, skills and expertise to tackle the very real issues that Brecon faces."

The meeting takes place on Thursday, April 14 at 6pm and all traders are welcome to attend.