A trade organisation has expressed support for the selection of two chairs to lead a fresh Welsh Government working group dedicated to helping shopping districts and town centres.

The Federation of Small Businesses indicated that the newly formed Town Centre Taskforce should ensure small enterprises have significant input throughout all aspects of its activities.

Joshua Miles, the director of FSB Wales, stated that small businesses form the backbone of Welsh town centres, providing employment and supporting local communities and high street areas.

Miles expressed approval for the appointment of the taskforce co-chairs. He emphasised that it is now crucial for small business perspectives to influence the group’s work right from the beginning.

The administration has named Tamsin Ramasut and Professor Simon Gibson CBE as co-chairs of the taskforce.

Miles noted that the Welsh Government’s early discussions regarding business rates had been well received, but stressed the need for tangible measures to accompany these talks in the forthcoming budget.

He added that the upcoming Budget ought to extend the small retail multiplier to cover hospitality and leisure enterprises and increase the level at which companies become liable for business rates.

Miles said they anticipate working with the taskforce on how more sustained reform of business rates, combined with measures addressing planning, transport and community safety, can foster entrepreneurship, safeguard local employment and maintain thriving town centres throughout Wales.