Your views count in council’s plans to enhance Towcester

HAVE your say on the vision for the growth of Towcester.

West Northamptonshire Council has begun work on plans to enhance the town and sustainably grow its economy. And it is keen to hear the thoughts of businesses, employees and residents.

The council’s Towcester town centre manager Samantha Hosking has been working with local businesses, organisations and Towcester Town Council to promote the town and to establish opportunities to improve the high street for the benefit of businesses, residents and visitors.

The initiative follows a similar plan to enhance Brackley. The move is in response to changing usage patterns in the UK’s high streets. Now is the time to review the future of the high street and particularly how Towcester can prosper, the council says.

• An improved marketing strategy to raise awareness around what is available to residents and promote the town to visitors;
• Working alongside landlords and commercial agents to encourage leasing of empty premises and provide more choice to prospective businesses and investors;
• Attracting more independent businesses to relocate to or open additional branches in Towcester;
• Tailored support and guidance to nurture new business start-ups;
• Delivery of more town centre events; including music, pavement dining and activities for families;
• Additional markets and stalls to provide more choice and attract people to the town;
• Considering the introduction of a Town Gift Card or loyalty scheme to encourage people to spend locally.

Improvements to traffic in the town – a key issue for many, says the council – are not included in the survey because of improvements already being carried out in the town centre by National Highways, the Towcester Relief Road and projects under way for cycleways and pedestrian routes.

Cllr Daniel Lister, cabinet member for economic development, town centre regeneration and growth, said: “Towcester has a rich historical past and is an important part of our county’s heritage. I encourage everyone who has a view to take part in this survey and help us gather ideas to shape and develop Towcester town centre and provide an enhanced experience for all residents, visitors, businesses and investors.”

The survey closes at midnight on June 9. To take part, click here.