Colchester Conservative Association

A ColchesterCurrency to boost local economy

 Conservative Parliamentary candidate Will Quince is proposing that Colchester Borough Council works with the local business Community to introduce a Colchester Pound note.  A local currency bearing the pictures of our landmark buildings and local heroes would bring economic benefits to the small independent retailers because they wouldn’t be accepted in national chains  The local currency would complement, not replace Pounds Sterling, and would ensure that wealth remains within the local economy. Similar local currency schemes have been introduced with success in market towns such as Totnes in Devon, Lewes in East Sussex, Stroud in Gloucestershire; as well as the south London urban area of Brixton. 

 Will Quince said:

 ”Our local traders are honest, hard-working people who enjoy making a living by serving their community but its really tough right now.  Introducing a Colchester Pound would help keep money within Colchester, boasting local trade and encouraging civic pride”.

 “I’ve got friends who live on the Suffolk/Essex border so sending them some Colchester Pound notes rather than gift vouchers would encourage them to come shopping in Colchester over Ipswich.  I’m also really looking forward to seeing what suggestions come forward for which Colchester legends and what historic buildings could appear on the notes”.

 Over the coming days Will is set to meet with Cllr Kevin Bentley, Leader of the Conservative Group on Colchester Borough Council to discuss the next steps.