DORCHESTER’S town centre has been dealt another blow following the loss of a popular independent business - a beauty salon and spa - on the high street.
Medusa Apothecary in High East Street has shut its doors for good in what is the latest hit for the town in light of challenges faced by businesses during the pandemic.
Following the permanent closure of the hair and beauty salon and spa, Dorchester Mayor, Gareth Jones, says that while he does not know for certain he expects the impacts of Covid-19 played its part in the salon's closure and that it is always sad to see a business go.
Cllr Jones said: “It’s been a successful business up until now and it's always a shame to lose a business and in this case probably through Covid.
“People are reluctant to go out and engage in personal services and go out in person.
“Dorchester is fortunate because it is not as badly hit as other places but it is always sad to see a business go.
“Losing one business can sometimes knock confidence in an area.”
Previously Medusa was crowned the winner of the best small shops in Britain awards competition for the health and beauty category - run by the Telegraph Magazine.
However, the business announced it would be closing earlier this month after informing their customers planned appointments would be cancelled.
Looking ahead, Cllr Jones, says he would like to see another independent business set up shop in the site located next to the All Saints Church in Dorchester.
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Cllr Jones continued: “I’d like to see an independent back in there because they are usually concerned in the supply chain more locally and as are the owners and earners, especially more so than national companies where profits are then shared between shareholders from further afield.
“I imagine the building is owned by a company who will know what the local going rates are and price appropriately by contrast to say a London company who may be happy to sit on an empty property for a while.”
The mayor of the county town added that he wished the owners well in their next venture, whatever that may be.
Dorchester BID have also been contacted for comment in regard to the business closing, as well as Medusa Apothecary.
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