Clinging to an outdated dream

“The UK’s struggling retail chains are closing their shops at a rate of more than 30 a day across the UK as the economic downturn continues, according to research” (The Guardian, 18/10/2012). The Telegraph makes it 32 a day (2/11/2012).
By The Newsroom
Published 10th Nov 2012, 08:10 BST

There are collapsing retail chains (Comet, JJB Sports, Clinton Cards) and chains closing branches (Argos, Past Times) due not only to the economic downturn but also the inexorable rise of e-tailing. They are replaced by discount stores and pawnbrokers – just look at the Parade opposite the town hall. Building another shopping mall in the centre of the town will certainly increase the supply of empty shops but will do nothing to attract visitors to our town. Moreover, it will be locked and dead at 7pm and subtract from the evening economy.

The Clarendon Arcade proposal was correctly described as “yesterday’s idea” in the Courier two weeks ago. The planning committee did not and could not consider the need (or lack of it) for the previous rejected scheme, because that is not their job.

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The longer the council clings to these outdated dreams, the more of our time and money they are wasting. Their support for it is known to be political, not economic or commercial.

If we want to support the town centre we should make it attractive and fun, with easy and cheap short-term parking and loading facilities, good cafes and restaurants, play areas for children, pubs with and without live music, cinema and theatre. Malls are superfluous. - Marianne Pitts, The Leamington Society

Related topics:TelegraphArgos