In the Bleak Midwinter

Today, we enter the no man's land that in Rhuthun/Ruthin is the shapeless and saddening infinity between Boxing Day and the day after New Year's Day. In spite of the unseasonably mild weather, the distance from the bottom to Clwyd Street to the bottom of Well Street can be measured in freezing temperatures. Shop doors remain closed against the economic chill. The grey of the car park gives up only a handful of colourful cars. Only hardy souls walk the otherwise noiseless paving slabs. 

So starts January, February, March... This is a time of introspection on the part of the town's businesses. A period of clinging on. A stubbornness borne of necessity. A game of economic Russian roulette, of truth or dare. A long season of ponderously passing hour hands across a desolate clockface.

Many will recognise that the prognosis this winter is especially bleak. Yet, we have the power to change the course of events by supporting our struggling shops. There is a problem, though: we ourselves may not be economically resilient enough to do so. 

Ready to open on The Square?

And, sadly, we can expect closures during the dark days of winter 2024. Balanced against that will be openings, perhaps in January, perhaps in the spring, even perhaps where business relationships have not always been robust. 

We're not suggesting that the face of Rhuthun hasn't changed. But let us dispel the idea that there is now little of worth to make us come into town. This oft cited adage simply isn't true. There still remains a selection of decent comparison shops dotted among the hair salons. Yes, we can even expect a fifth barbers in town, launching soon. Better a barber than an empty shop (though existing barbers might disagree).