Town Centre Commerce Can Brighten Up Brentwood

The Panel

Shops, traders and other small businesses are key to Brentwood's future prosperity and revival according to the town's leaders.  The Brentwood Town Centre Partnership of all those with a stake in its development joined forces with the Chamber of Commerce and Federation of Small Businesses at BT's Brentwood HQ.

At the groups' summer barbeque for over 50 invited businesses and entrepreneurs, the vision for Brentwood was spelt out following the theme of 'Brightening Up Brentwood'.

Brentwood Town Centre Partnership chairman Nick Abbott, also a boss at BT in London Road, summed up the most significant elements shaping the town.  "High Street improvements, the gateway to the town round the station and a manageable nighttime economy are the most important things going on," he said.

The Partnership also highlighted the part played by the annual Brentwood in Bloom competition in adding colour to the town.  On the subject of 'chuggers' – charity representatives approaching the public to sign up to direct debit donations – raised by Nick, Brentwood Council leader Brandon Lewis reported a new policy devised with charities would help address the nuisance.

To listen to Nick Abbot again click here

Roger Kelsey, Chamber of Commerce chair and Shenfield butcher, said 'Brightening up Brentwood' means continuing the three-pronged approach of the 70-year-old group:  (i) get more information, help and advice out to traders at (ii) events dedicated to their issues and (iii) use the existing member discount card scheme run by the Chamber.

To listen to Roger Kelsey again click here

David Burch, of the Federation for Small Businesses, flagged up that sales of out-of-town shopping units are falling due to a new interest in town centre trading.  He advised to capitalise on the move – part due to the financial squeeze and part because of high fuel prices – by reigning in parking charges.  "It costs people to park in centres, which is one factor forcing people out of town," David said.  Park and ride was one solution suggested for cheaper parking.

To listen to David Burch again click here

Essex County Council officer Barry Shaw reported that Brentwood has a county-wide reputation for quality and prosperity which isn't reflected by its High Street as is.  "Brentwood's a lovely place with history – a 12th Century town centre chapel even – but the High Street hasn't the associated quality yet," said Barry.  "Not many High Streets can claim to be the single conservation area Brentwood's is and big expensive changes aren't necessary.  Oven it's as subtle as smaller signs, paint colour and pot plants, ie sensitive change looked at by you, the decision makers.

To listen to Barry Shaw again click here

To listen to Cllr Brandon Lewis Click here

Got a view on the opinions expressed by the Partnership, Chamber and Federation speakers?  Let Phoenix FM presenter, and Brentwood Town Centre Partnership member, Oliver Rowe know by visiting the contacts page here; www.phoenixfm.com/contact.php

This event was organised by Brant Design www.brantdesignstudio.co.uk