PLANS for a loyalty card to encourage more people to ‘shop local’ has received a mixed reception from Penistone traders.

Coun Steve Webber, of the Penistone West ward, revealed detailed plans for a ‘shop local’ card at a meeting in the town centre last Wednesday. He is hoping it will help ‘revitalise’ Penistone businesses and contribute towards a sustainable economy in the town centre.

But plans for the card, which could cost businesses £50 to join, have received a mixed reception following the consultation meeting. About six traders attended.

Paul Schofield, of Schofield’s Butchers on Market Street, thinks it could be a good thing for the town as long as enough traders are on board with the idea. “It’s got to be done very carefully,” he said. “Once we get a few things sorted out, all the finer details, things should be okay.

“At the moment we do not know how exactly it is going work. What I think we need to do is speak to the customers and see what they say about it all.”

One established town centre trader, who did not want to be named, is not convinced. She said: “I have been here 15 years and do not think it will make any difference to business or drum up any extra clients.

Another meeting is planned for the end of January by Coun Webber when it is hoped there will be a higher turnout at the meeting.