THE WORCESTERSHIRE County Council cabinet member for business and skills has visited Stourport High Street in a bid to see what help could be offered to rejuvenate the town centre.
Coun Alan Amos was joined by Coun Ian Cresswell, who represents Stourport – Mitton on the county council, and Stourport Town Mayor, Coun John Thomas.
Coun Amos said: “I have always known Stourport as a beautiful and historic town with character and great potential but, like so many others, its town centre has fallen on hard times for a variety of reasons and needs help to get itself back into the top rank.
“It has the potential to do so because of its existing historic areas, its natural beauty and canal and its wide range of boutique and regular shops, together with a good mix of eating places provide every incentive for people to come and do their shopping and spend leisure time here.”
Suggestions were made by Coun Cresswell and Coun Amos has now taken away some of the thoughts and ideas which he will discuss this week with Worcestershire County Council’s economic development officers.
Coun Amos added: “I will be asking them to come up with some proposals, including the potential for tourism.
“Given the general decline in high streets throughout the country, there is no magic wand or quick fix but the setting of Stourport High Street, set amidst a historic and beautiful location, does offer the possibility of getting some improvement.
“Amongst other things, the county council has an extremely successful Business and Skills Department with very experienced officers.
“There is already available help for small and medium sized business to set up and develop, providing advice, grants, training, and upgrading skills in the retail sector.”
