Paul Hamer, the owner of Clitheroe Books located on Moor Lane, has announced that he will be closing his beloved bookshop at the end of March, citing rising rents and challenging economic conditions as significant factors driving his decision. After three years of operating the business under a six-year lease, which included an option to break after three years, Mr. Hamer feels that the current landscape for small, independent shops in Clitheroe is increasingly untenable.
Mr. Hamer expressed his dismay over the broader trend of small businesses closing in town centres, stating, “It is a massive shame for Clitheroe, which now faces having no dedicated bookshop.” This closure resonates beyond personal loss; it reflects a growing concern for the character and appeal of the town itself. He noted that he has made every effort to keep the shop functional, but in light of various mounting challenges, perseverance has become progressively more difficult.
One of the most critical issues Mr. Hamer pointed to was the exorbitant rental prices for retail spaces in Clitheroe. “The rents for shops are increasingly too high and a significant part of the problem,” he asserted. The rising costs have placed a burden on not just his business but also others, contributing to the closure of unique shops that once contributed to the vibrancy of the local economy.
Observing the changing retail landscape in Clitheroe, he remarked, “If you look at the types of new shops opening in Clitheroe, I think a fundamental change is happening.” He noted a proliferation of men’s barbershops, vape shops that double as general stores, and nail salons—business types that he believes won’t entice day-trippers or provide the cultural enrichment found in a bookshop. Mr. Hamer lamented, “I don’t see how those types of shops will attract day-visitors to the town like a bookshop can.” The influx of these shops has led him to believe that the unique character of Clitheroe is being diminished. “I think these retail changes are dumbing down the town centre,” he said. “People won’t travel from miles around if that’s all Clitheroe offers.”
Despite these challenges, Mr. Hamer has enjoyed a loyal customer base, with patrons making the journey from places as far as Manchester, Lancaster, and Bolton to visit his bookshop. He contends that the closure of his store will mean one less reason for visitors to come to Clitheroe. “Clitheroe needs a good mix of shops if we’re going to keep attracting people in the future,” he added, underscoring the importance of maintaining a diverse retail environment to ensure sustained foot traffic in the town.
Going forward, Mr. Hamer is actively exploring alternative locations to potentially rehouse the bookshop. However, he admitted that securing a new venue in Clitheroe may be proving more challenging than anticipated due to the same high rent issues that have plagued his current location. “I don’t own the building I’ve been in and have been renting it,” he explained, emphasizing how rising costs make it feel nearly impossible to find a suitable alternative.
The decision to close comes amid a backdrop of challenges that have affected small businesses in Clitheroe over the past three years, including the lingering effects of the pandemic. Mr. Hamer noted the significant disruption caused by town centre upgrades, which included road and pavement improvements, impacting cafes, pubs, and retailers alike. Some might argue that these upgrades are beneficial in the long run, but for those like Mr. Hamer who are currently feeling the effects, these changes can be detrimental.
While he acknowledged that small businesses have received financial support through various government and council schemes during tough times, Mr. Hamer emphasized that property rents remain a vital barrier to sustainability. “It’s easy to criticize councils for disruption, but in my view, property rents are a key challenge for small businesses,” he said.
In contemplating potential solutions, Mr. Hamer entertained the idea of sharing a building and rent with other retailers, possibly integrating a café or collaborating with small businesses to lower overhead costs. Pooling resources could create a shared space that draws more customers through a combined offering rather than relying solely on foot traffic generated by individual businesses.
Although he is focused on finding another place within Clitheroe, Mr. Hamer is also exploring towns like Padiham and Burnley as possible new homes for his bookshop. He is mindful that proximity to like-minded businesses might enhance the likelihood of success for an independent bookshop, as shared foot traffic could bolster customer numbers for all involved.
The prospect of losing Clitheroe Books, a cherished local institution, casts a shadow on the community’s cultural fabric. Bookshops often serve as hubs of connection, creativity, and conversation, and the potential disappearance of such a space deeply concerns Mr. Hamer. He believes that the love for books and reading should not only be nurtured but celebrated within vibrant community spaces.
As the closure date approaches, there is a palpable sense of loss not just for Mr. Hamer but for the community that has embraced him. “It is a sad day for Clitheroe that I’m having to close the shop,” he reflected, admitting that it’s almost certain the town will face the reality of having no dedicated bookshops left, after having enjoyed the presence of three in recent memory.
Despite the tumultuous journey of these past three years, Mr. Hamer remains hopeful. He continues to explore different options, remaining committed to the idea of maintaining a community resource dedicated to books, literacy, and the joy of reading. “I hope to find a way to keep the spirit of the bookshop alive, wherever that may be,” he declared.
In a world increasingly dominated by online shopping and digital entertainment, the importance of physical spaces like bookshops cannot be overstated. They offer a sanctuary of sorts—a refuge where stories come to life, and community connections are forged amid the aisles of books. As he looks toward the future, Mr. Hamer embodies the resilience of independent retailers who refuse to be defeated by cyclical economic trends and strive to create enriching community experiences, thereby keeping the spirit of literature alive.
As the last chapter of his journey at Clitheroe Books approaches, the story of independent retail continues. Will Clitheroe see a resurgence of unique shops that can attract visitors and foster community spirit? The answer remains uncertain, but for patrons, Mr. Hamer has left an indelible mark. Whether he finds a new location in Clitheroe or another town, his love for literature and the value he places on community engagement remain steadfast. Through challenges and change, the narrative is far from over; it is merely entering a new volume.