CALLS have been made to revive Burnham’s high street and draw more people into the town.

Jane Williams, owner of Pink Cola in the town, fears many independent stores could face closure or relocation if high street footfall doesn’t improve.

Mrs Williams opened her shop, which sells ethical and often organic clothing, gifts and treats, in June last year, but said the high street has become increasingly quieter in the space of 12 months.

She said competition from online outlets and costly business rates could see high street trade “left behind”.

“There’s quite a few empty premises in the high street, which is a shame, but it is a multi-faceted issue,” she said.

“Some of the rents people are charged are ridiculous, which no fledgling or small independent business can sustain.

“It’s quieter than this time last year, and I feel if we business owners don’t say something or club together we could be left behind, with places like Maldon getting more.

“I really don’t want to see online completely take over, as shop owners we rely on footfall; we want to provide a place where clients can come in and browse, we like being part of a community, but without footfall we will be forced to take our businesses fully online.”

Mrs Williams hopes to form a group of Burnham business owners to help bring more interest to the town.

She added: “Burnham is meant to be the jewel of the Dengie, yet we have more empty spaces on our high street, and a shortage of parking.

“Even things like opening a field to serve as an overflow car park may help. If more business can work together, talk more, we may find ways of improving interest.

“But if it carries on the way it is, I may be forced to look elsewhere to run the shop.”

Burnham mayor Wendy Stamp said Maldon District Council’s director of resources Emma Foy had attended a Chamber of Commerce event to explain how the council could help businesses.

She added: “The business rates issues were discussed and Emma explained how to apply for dispensation reductions etc.

“I am sure she would be happy to meet with Jane to try and help or even have the support from the chamber again for a follow up meeting.”