A business woman from Ely has proposed a pop up shop scheme to help “strengthen” the declining high street and “boost tourism”.

Hafsa Gaher, who runs tour operator Archer and Gaher Adventures, is intending to write to the Mayor to fill the growing number of empty shop fronts in the high street with short to medium term lets.

It comes as a questionnaire was launched by City of Ely councillors in July to access the climate of the high street amid claims of high rents and less shoppers.

The entrepreneur says that the shop share scheme would create vibrancy in the town and take the pressure away from existing shop owners who could share the burden of rising prices by working with similar businesses.

“This would be local businesses being represented on the high street, supported by their local council and boosting tourism for those who would continue to come back so that they can see what’s new in town,” she said.

“It would benefit companies who would build their marketing profile among local people while providing an air of change to the city centre.

“The short term nature of this scheme would enable businesses to make the most of seasonal events such as Christmas with fresh stock and new ideas.

“Imagine a scheme which pushes vibrancy, in flavour and colour infusing into the local community.”

Mrs Gaher moved to Ely with her husband last year after falling in love with the city during day trips and short holidays in the area.

She has just opened her second online business after having success before with pop up style shops prior to living in Ely.

She continued: “I have drafted this proposal to be sent to the Mayor’s office with a view to strengthening the high street and providing a boost to tourism.

“As a close knit community, this is a scheme which can unite people behind small and medium businesses.

“I would like to be a part of these initiatives and believe that there would be a great deal of support from local businesses who would like to be represented as well.

“We could provide momentum, driving change through into our shop fronts to establish new memories while preserving and reinvigorating traditional stalwarts such as Mr Simms so that no more of these high street favourites will be consigned to history.”

Anyone who is interested in helping Hafsa with her idea can contact her at hafsa@archergaheradventures.co.uk or by calling 07443009662.