Perthshire retailers have reacted with anger after being accused of “laziness” by local councillor Dennis Melloy.
Earlier this month, he claimed shopkeepers relied too much on Perth and Kinross Council to clear snow and ice from their premises.
He claimed they needed to get “off their backsides” and do their own clearance work to ensure custom was not affected during the winter period.
However, members of Perthshire Chamber of Commerce have hit back at being “unjustly accused” of failing to play their part and have demanded an apology from Councillor Melloy.
Letters have been sent to the Strathmore councillor, as well as to council chief executive Bernadette Malone calling for discussions to take place.
Chief executive Vicki Unite said, “Retailers are suffering from one of the most challenging trading environments in decades, as the volume of empty premises in Perth and other towns in Perthshire clearly demonstrates.
“The fact is that retailers are working flat out to attract shoppers. They have taken responsibility and made considerable efforts to ensure that the area around their premises is clear of snow and ice.
“At the same time, many have had to cope with frozen or burst pipes and cancellations over this period.”
Ms Unite said that, despite the best efforts of the council, many people had been discouraged from leaving their homes during the icy blast.
“In addition, the availability of on-street and off-street car parking has effectively been cut, because spaces have been inaccessible due to snow and ice,” she added.
“This is an issue not just for business, but for the people whose employment depends on Perthshire having a vibrant economy and for their families.
“Businesses in Perthshire deserve better and we would welcome talks with the council to see where lessons can be learned in the future.
“In the meantime, local retailers deserve an apology from Councillor Melloy.”