Businesses discuss improvements to Grantham town centre
InvestSK invited businesses and other local organisations to share their opinions of how Grantham’s town centre could be improved.
The common topics of discussion at the workshop on February 27 were the potential of the George Centre and pedestrianisation of Westgate.
Last year, Grantham secured a place on the Government’s shortlist for its £1 billion Future High Streets programme along with 100 other towns. A full bid for funding will be submitted in June.
The consultation saw local businesses outline the positives and points of improvement for Grantham town centre.
The massive potential of the George Centre, as both a shopping centre and a connector of Westgate and High Street, was frequently mentioned. Also, the affordability for businesses renting inside the George Centre was a point of concern raised.
Grantham railway station was another key area highlighted for improvement, as it is the first impression of the town for any visitor arriving by train. Suggestions for improving this area included a takeaway and Amazon collection point for the huge number of commuters who use the station on a daily basis.
Pedestrian access on both Westgate and High Street was addressed, with local businesses suggesting that pedestrian crossings could be improved, or that the streets, which were deemed too traffic heavy, could be pedestrianised.
Targetting visitors who use the A1 was also suggested, encouraging people to use Grantham as a service station. This could be achieved by ‘Visit Grantham’ signs on the motorway, or through the installation of electric car charging points.
Liz Bates, assistant chief executive of InvestSk, said: “These sessions are really useful because you get some real gems of ideas.
“We want the bid to shine. It’s really important to get the perspective of businesses working in the town centre.”
To have your say on the town’s bid, visit: www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/futuregrantham