Issue - meetings

This report provides an update on the activities of the Town Centre Manager.

Recommendation: to note the report.

Covid-19 had initially impacted on the newly appointed Town Centre Manager’s ability to engage with businesses.  Meetings with individual businesses and surgeries had however now started happening.

Businesses were being supported in a variety of ways including reducing their energy costs through identifying the cheapest available tariffs via the cost savings scheme pilot project.  The pilot had cost approximately £5,000 to implement, but had saved businesses in excess of £10,000.  This figure was expected to grow further in due course.

A number of other projects were taking place such as the renovation of the Sunbury Cross underpass, the creation of a business hub and a grants scheme for equipment.

Engagement with other local business representatives such as the Chamber of Commerce was now taking place, along with building links with residents’ associations.  Work would continue to take place on engaging with smaller business parades and areas of limited engagement.

The report was noted.