An SOS has been sent to traders in Cockermouth in a bid to tackle the problem of empty shops in the town.

Over 100 business owners are being urged to attend a meeting aimed at finding solutions to the problem that is blighting the town centre.

The initiative is being led by the Cockermouth and District Chamber of Trade, which has organised the meeting.

Chairman of the chamber, Andrew Marshall, the owner of Strolling 4 Shoes in the town, is hoping that as many members of the chamber attend as possible in order to find a solution.

All 130 members are invited to the meeting, which will be held at the town hall on July 17, at 5.30pm.

They are seeking suggestions as to how to fill the empty units in the town, which stands at around 13 properties.

He said: “Next Wednesday we have the Chamber of Trade open night for members where we will say what the committee has done in the last six months and what we will be doing over the next six months and we are launching a website to keep everyone informed as to what is going on.

“We will be looking at what can be done about the empty premises and shops in town, of which there are around 13 empty units.

“Some, such as the banks premises, are not so easy to fill.”

He said one possibility is to have pop-up shops in the empty premises, but there are some issues to address with this such as securing short-term leases with landlords.

Mr Marshall was encouraged that an application has been submitted to Allerdale Borough Council asking to change the use of one of the empty business premises, 76 Main Street, to a clinic.

The application says that the company will offer hearing tests and supply private hearing aids, offering an ear wax removal service and sell products such as batteries for hearing aids.

Upstairs will be two consultation rooms for hearing tests, wax removal and other health care service.

The shop downstairs will be the reception, waiting area and retail shop.

Owner of Wild Zucchinis, Manon Plouffe, said: “Summer holidays are on the way.

“Pop-ups would be a brilliant opportunity to offer to local artists and individuals who would like to have a go at trying out a new idea or pursuing a small business they’ve already started at home so they can get a flavour of the market and create visibility for their venture.”

She added: “Also having empty shops temporarily used will make the town a lot more attractive for visitors.”