Labour MP Jim Dickson has highlighted the importance of local independent businesses after visiting Summerhouse Fish & Chips in Joyden’s Wood following an evening of campaigning in the area.
The Dartford MP stopped at the family-run takeaway after delivering his latest constituency update leaflet to local residents.
Dickson said:
“Lovely to pop by Summerhouse Fish & Chips this evening!”
He added that it was “just what was needed” after a productive evening in Joyden’s Wood and described the business as “highly recommended”.
Supporting a neighbourhood business
Summerhouse Fish & Chips is based at 66 Summerhouse Drive in Joyden’s Wood, a small parade of local shops serving the surrounding community.
The takeaway currently holds the top five-star food hygiene rating, awarded by Dartford Borough Council following an inspection in September 2024.
Dickson’s visit follows his wider emphasis on staying visible across Dartford’s neighbourhoods and supporting the independent businesses that provide local jobs and services.
Small businesses at heart of local communities
Neighbourhood shops, cafés and takeaways often play a wider role than their economic contribution alone, providing familiar meeting points and helping sustain local high streets and shopping parades.
Joyden’s Wood has a number of small independent retailers and community facilities serving residents, including businesses around Summerhouse Drive and nearby Birchwood Parade.
For Labour, supporting smaller businesses is also increasingly part of the wider debate about town centres, business rates and the cost pressures facing independent firms.
Combining campaigning with local engagement
Dickson had spent the evening distributing his latest update to residents in Joyden’s Wood before calling into the shop.
His visit provided another opportunity to speak directly with local business owners and staff about their experiences in the community.
For Dickson, the message was straightforward: strong local communities depend on thriving independent businesses — and MPs should be out supporting the people who keep them going.
