St.Helens Merseyside conducts borough study

St. Helens council in Merseyside, South England has commissioned a borough wide study to identify potential capacity to attract new retailers. The study will be undertaken by specialist consultancy, WYG group, and will involve a comprehensive survey

of shoppers and businesses to examine existing trade patterns and to quantify the level of need for additional facilities. A combination of a telephone survey, on-street interviews and a business survey will be undertaken.

Mark Dickens, head of regeneration, said: “The study will be a vital tool for planning the future development of both St Helens and Earlestown town centres. In particular, Earlestown market has been an important focal point for Earlestown town centre for many years, attracting visitors from a wide area. However, the market is not immune to the impacts of the current recession.” The council is keen to ensure that Earlestown town centre remains the borough’s second largest retail centre with the market playing a key focal role.

Keith Nutter, Director, WYG said: “It is well publicised that town centres across the UK are facing tough times ahead. St Helens and Earlsetown town centres in Merseyside are no exception.

“If the Council is to plan positively for the future regeneration of the town centres it is imperative that there is a clear understanding of the current strengths and weaknesses of the centres. Our expertise in gathering this type of evidence will prove invaluable when forming a strategy which will seek to
maximise the benefits of any future investment.’