OWNERS of a glass making shop have said that choice and confidence are key factors in the success of a high street.

Angelina Hall and Cathy O’Doherty of Glass By Design based in Station Approach were speaking as part of our “Your High Street: Use It or Lose It” campaign which aims to promote the use of Penarth’s high streets in the wake of falling national footfall figures and explore any issues local shops and shoppers face.

Glass By Design was opened in May 2016 by the town mayor as specialists in stained glass and fused glass work.

It hosts glass making classes where members of the public can use their state-of-the-art kiln.

Mrs Hall said it is an “exciting” time to be in Penarth.

She said: “It has really changed in the last two or three years.

“The vibe is an upbeat arty one and we set up at just the right time and people understand what we are trying to do and have embraced it.”

Mrs O’Doherty said that Penarth’s strength is in its diversity and that it “offers everything”.

She says people are attracted to the town for the day for coffee, lunch and a look around.

Mrs Hall said: “The confidence of people has grown and everyone offers something unique.

“Choice is so important.”

They both recognise that one of the main issues is parking and cited opportunities to use empty properties on the way into the town for parking.

Mrs O’Doherty said that she speaks to people who come from Dinas Powys, Sully and Cardiff who say they don’t come to the town as often as they would like because they can’t park.

But she said that the choice available and the independent shops give others confidence to do the same

She said: “There are lovely houses and it is by the sea. I can’t think of a nicer place to live.”

Mrs Hall added: “People who are successful have a plan for sustainability.”

“We have no down time because when the shop is quiet we are making or having classes.”