Why do we need it?
Town centres have many roles. They are centres of economic activity and places where people come to work; they are a focus of social and cultural life in urban areas and centres of entertainment; and they fulfil an important role as centres of retail activity. Over the last twenty years many town centres across the UK have been affected by:
- The rise in car ownership - people are more mobile and willing to travel further to do their shopping
- The growth of out of town ‘American style’ retail centres and the expansion of supermarkets - more choice, lower prices, free parking and longer opening hours.
- The growth of internet shopping and home delivery
Retail is a key sector in Torbay for both our residents and visitors. However, the Town Centres in Torquay, Paignton, Brixham and Babbacombe/St Marychurch like many UK centres have been in decline because of:
- Difficulties in access
- Competition from out-of-town shopping centres like The Willows
- Competition from Exeter and Plymouth
A result of this is an above average number of empty shops and of charity shops which attract fewer visitors and accelerate the downward spiral. This decline cannot be allowed to continue.
The local economic strategy strongly supports plans to invest in the development and regeneration of each of the town centres in Torbay in order to regain the market share which they have been losing. One element in this strategy is support for the establishment of BIDs which recognise and respect the twin role of town centre and visitor attraction. Experience elsewhere in the country proves that BIDs, if properly planned and delivered, are a major contributor to town centre vitality.