INDEPENDENT shop owners from across Crowthorne have spoken out about the state of the village after a decade of development.

Located on the border of Bracknell Forest and Wokingham, Crowthorne has always been known for its fantastic sense of community spirit.

As the years have passed, however, businesses have stated that although the population has increased, there has been a drop in passing trade on the high street. 

Cathrine Dobson, who’s family has owned Dobson Butchers for 14 years spoke to the News about how the town has changed over the decade.

She said: “We have seen a massive change in the high street especially since we opened our doors 14 years ago.

“When the store opened there were four banks, a post office, and a building society on the main street which served a community of around 4,000, half of whom live within walking distance from the town.

“Through the years we have lost a lot of passing trade because of the loss of banks and some important independent businesses in the town.

“A lot of small shops come and go. This included a popular shoe shop called ‘Newman’s’ which brought families from miles around into the village."

Cathrine told the News that over the years the butchers has been forced to utilize social media alongside many other traders.

Loic Neidoo from Loic’s Deli opened his store two years ago on Duke’s Ride selling a variety of high-quality meats and cheeses.

Speaking to the News, he explained that a lot of custom within Crowthorne rises when families return to the area in September and around the Christmas period.

He explained: “Owning a shop in Crowthorne, instead of having constant trade there are highs and lows at different times throughout the year.

“I think that people need to be educated about independent businesses. If the community does not take advantage of local shops they are going to lose them. People’s perception definitely needs to change.

“Although I will say that Crowthorne has a really great community feel. We have late-night shopping at Christmas and different carnivals throughout the year. More does need to be done though to promote our businesses.”

An initiative to help small businesses was put in place in 2022 to help businesses with trade following the pandemic.