SPECIALIST shops in Canterbury are struggling to survive.

Chairman of the Independent Traders Association Alan Jeffrey said business had reached a new low and stores were closing all around the city.

Mr Jeffrey runs Corridors of Time in Palace Street, which is surrounded by empty units.

"This was the worst Christmas I've had since I opened here three years ago," he said.

"One shop over the road took £63 in a week over the Christmas period, and it's no surprise that it's now closed.

"Businesses are closing and the successful ones are moving. Soon there will be nothing left."

Many premises in the road have been deserted for several years, and even long-standing shops like Forwoods music store have fallen victim.

Mr Jeffrey said: "There are award-winning businesses down here, like the Kings Gallery, the hand-painted pottery shop and the Dolls House Shop.

"We have some lovely restaurants and the people who run these businesses will do anything they can to make the area a success."

Efforts to bring people into Palace Street include a charity street party, being planned for the weekend starting Saturday, May 11.

Mr Jeffrey said proper signs should be put up to direct visitors to Palace Street, and more should be made of what the council has branded the Bohemian Quarter.

"Canterbury City Council should be proud of us and make sure everyone knows we are here," he said.