Salisbury Business Improvement District

Business As Usual, Despite Russian Spy Investigation

7th March 2018

While an investigation into the possible poisoning of a former Russian spy continues, Salisbury BID is calling on people to continue to come into the city centre as normal and support local businesses.

Robin McGowan, Chief Executive of Salisbury BID, says: “I can understand there may be people who have uncertainties about visiting the city centre right now but Wiltshire Police have assured the public that there does not appear to be any immediate risk to public health.

“There are a number of cordons in the area closest to the scene, and there are indeed businesses in The Maltings that are closed at the moment, but otherwise businesses across the city centre are open and trading. It’s business as usual.”

On Sunday (4th March), Wiltshire Police and partners declared a major incident after it is suspected that former Russian Spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter were exposed to an unknown substance in Salisbury.

They were taken to Salisbury District Hospital where they are currently in a critical condition. Our thoughts are with those who are affected.

Robin McGowan added: “My team and I at Salisbury BID are working hard behind the scenes to put a plan into place to support the affected businesses for when normality does resume.

"We would like to encourage any of our members to contact us on 01722 658000 if their business has been affected by this incident, and we will do our best to assist wherever possible."