LB First Column: A new way forward
There's no doubt that the recent heat waves have had a negative impact on high streets up and down the country, with figures showing an average 3.5% drop in footfall. With record-breaking temperatures the impact was felt across all sectors of the economy and with these kinds of extreme weather patterns becoming more common the government and local authorities need to think about what can be done to mitigate the worst effects. Whilst many businesses have been adapting how they work help and planning is still needed from the authorities particularly for small businesses. But going forward we need to think about what changes can be made to our town centres, as well as any future developments, such as providing more greening, trees, shading, canopies, and benches. Certainly something to think about as we await for any announcement on plans regarding redeveloping the land south of the high street.
In the meantime it would be good to see Central Beds Council follow the example of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Pool Council who have legal letters ready to post to landlords who have failed to engage in conversation about empty shops in Bournemouth. Referring to the power to hold high street rental auctions granted by the government council leader Millie Earle said "We've got these powers and we're not afraid to use them". So far it has not had to actually use it, the threat alone has been enough with 35 new shops opening in the past 18 months.
In Watlington local business owners and residents have set up Watlington Community Property as a not-for-profit community benefit society, which allows communities to own assets collectively, and are currently fundraising in order to buy 3 commercial properties on their high street. Plunkett UK a Woodstock based charity that supports more than 870 community owned businesses nationwide are working with the group. WCP chair Robin Fieth said "Community ownership would create a really long-term sustainable future with a landlord who's going to be here for the long-term supporting independent retail. This is such a vibrant community and what we're asking the community to do is to get involved in the creation of its own future".
For more information contact Gennaro on 01525 854273 and LB First Facebook page.