Sunday trade hours could be extended

The government is considering giving local authorities the power to allow high streets to open longer on a Sunday – but not large supermarkets.

The move is part of a bid to revive the country’s high streets and the government is hoping to encourage councils to use the new powers to help town centre stores.

The current laws allow smaller convenience shops to stay open for longer hours but those smaller than 280 square metres can only stay open for six hours.

If given the go-ahead it could mean many stores in the high street being allowed to open for their normal hours.

And the Wakefield City Centre Partnership has sent out a survey to businesses in the city asking them for their views on the proposed plans.

WCCP chairman Liam Duffy said: “We are seeking views on whether the government should devolve Sunday trading rules to local areas run by elected mayors or local authorities.”

“This would give them greater control of their local economy and improve the wellbeing of local people.”

The four-question survey asks for views on how the potential changes could affect businesses in the city and would traders welcome the change in law.

To request a survey email [email protected].