St Helens commissions study to regenerate retail
St Helens in Merseyside has commissioned a borough-wide study to identify potential capacity to attract new retailers.
The study will involve a comprehensive survey of shoppers and businesses to examine existing trade patterns and to quantify the level of need for additional facilities.
St Helens Council has appointed specialist consultancy WYG to undertake the study. 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 at 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.”
He continued: “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.”
WYG provides retail planning advice to numerous local authorities across the north west of England.
