Businesses and council to decide future of Dunmow High Street
The most important meeting in recent times for Great Dunmow’s businesses, traders and service providers will take place next week.
Uttlesford District Council, Great Dunmow Town Council and the town’s Chamber of Commerce group have come together to organise the meeting, which will be held at the Saracen’s Head Hotel on Thursday (March 14, from 6-8pm) to open the debate over the future of the town’s High Street. All local businesses have been invited to attend.
The meeting follows a similar event held in Saffron Walden in January which was attended by more than 80 local traders and has already implemented plans to improve local trade, including the depoloyment of mystery shoppers, to help encourage good business practice.
Simon Jackson, economic development officer for UDC, said: “High streets everywhere are under siege from neighbouring towns and cities, out-of-town retail developments and online shopping.
“Rural market towns like Great Dunmow are really feeling the squeeze but this meeting will be an opportunity for the town’s traders to explore how they can work together to find ways of surviving the economic downturn and emerge as even more vibrant businesses.”
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The meeting will discuss ways to increase footfall and compete with other towns across the country.
Cllr Howard Rolfe, cabinet member for community partnerships and engagement, said: “Foot fall and the shopping experience are important ingredients in maintaining healthy and resilient commercial communities.
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“Sharing these ideas and working collaboratively is good business practice and I urge businesses and traders in Dunmow town centre to attend this meeting.”
Mike Perry, chairman of the Dunmow & District Chamber of Trade & Commerce, added: “Dunmow is a wonderful town with lots to offer shoppers and visitors, including the weekly market and unique events such as the Dunmow Flitch Trials.
“We feel the time is right to encourage all those with an interest in the town to work together to provide an even better experience and encourage more people to come to the town.”
The meeting is open to anyone who has a business or provides a service in Dunmow town centre and no booking is required. For information contact Mr Jackson on 01799 510521 or via e-mail sjackson@uttlesford.gov.uk
