THE prospect of Sunday trading continues to divide Warwick, with Daily News readers split on the issue.

51% of Daily News readers don't think there is a need for Sunday trading in Warwick, according to a recent online poll.

Among the concerns raised by readers was the effect on small businesses in town.

Real estate agent Darryl Evans said he believed Warwick didn't have the population or demand for small retail outlets to open seven days a week.

"So small business owners couldn't justify the staff costs for Sunday trading and would be forced to work the extra hours," he said.

"Oh maybe the customers wanting 7 day trading of retail shops will pay a Sunday trading premium to cover the extra wages?"

Other readers were critical of the town's current trading hours, stating the town should focus on trading all day Saturday instead.

"Before you have 7 days trading don't you need to have 6 days trading?," Vicki Weeks wrote.

"The majority of retail businesses in town still close at or around lunch time Saturday."

Jacquelynne Rogers said she didn't agree with Sunday trading, and businesses should extend their Saturday hour.

"It should be compulsory though for all of the shops in the CBD to remain open until four on Saturdays though," she said.

"Four o'clock would give people more time on a Saturday with no need for Sunday trading."

Those in favour of Sunday trading say our current trading hours are holding the town back.

Helena Moore suggested the town trial Sunday trading.

"I remember the same whinging, whining and complaining about Saturday trading when they wanted to bring it in here, look at how that turned out," she said.

"Make it optional for businesses. I'd definitely shop on Sunday!"

Cam Nicky Martin-Brown said Sunday trading would bring more money to Warwick.

"How many locals go shopping in Toowoomba and Brissy on weekends?," they wrote.

"Morgan Park and other organisations bring outsiders here every weekend."

What other readers said

No way! And closing at midday on Saturdays is good enough in Warwick, people have families you know.

- Courtney Sutton

I just had a lovely lunch in Warwick, having spent the morning in Stanthorpe and on our way home to Toowoomba.

Walked up the Main Street after lunch and nothing was open.

Maybe aim for full day trading on Saturdays before worrying about Sunday!

- DannyandDesleigh Hughes

If you want to spend everyday shopping live or travel to somewhere else.

Warwick has 6 days for you to spend your money, if you can't do that its time to look at your time management skills.

IGA, Westside, Harvey Norman. Bunnings and several cafes are already open; the only people who will benefit will be Major companies Coles, Woollies & Big W.

The losers will be the staff who lose time with their families, money is not everything.

- John Ryan