volunteers of the Newport Pagnell Partnership
Indeed, one of its primary goals has always been
to support local enterprises in helping to attract
new businesses to the town and to increase the
revenues of existing local businesses.
Pagnell's economy, and helping to maintain
their commercial health will go a long way to
securing a sustainable town centre. The retailers
have been particularly creative in finding new
market niches to compete with those in Central
Milton Keynes, and actively support the efforts
to raise the profiles of the surrounding market
towns," said David Mundy, a founder member
of the partnership.
improvements have made the town centre more
attractive and passing trade from members
of the local community has increased. The
free parking plays a vital role as half of my
customers are from out of town. The
Newport Pagnell Partnership has captured
ideas for improvement and turned them
into specific actions," explained Dave
Soulsby of Hobgoblin Music in St John's
Street, Newport Pagnell.
Interiors bought her first business premises
two years ago. Some people were
sceptical about her commercial potential,
but she pushed on and opened her
interiors and soft furnishings store.
business-critical decision. Newport Pagnell was
noticeably up and coming, and I was convinced
that the regeneration efforts would continue.
The new car parking has increased footfall and
made it possible for customers to buy more
during shopping trips as they do not have to
walk far to their cars," commented Alison.
second store.
the shopping arcade before the regeneration
efforts had kicked in. He refurbished with
cinema memorabilia, and is convinced that his
own investment, combined with local
regeneration, has delivered results.
five years. I think that approximately 75% of this
because of increased footfall which has
undoubtedly been fuelled by the regeneration.
Central Milton Keynes lacks atmosphere, and
the outlets, although modern, are faceless.
Newport Pagnell itself, and those trading within
it, have character; it's a business community
where people still nod at each other and are
intensely loyal. This town is perfect for small
businesses, as the local services are excellent,
the community is strong and welcoming, and
overheads are lower compared with other
areas," said Nick.
rather than enduring the high city-centre
rentals. The strong niche offerings of the
town centre continue to draw attention and
increase in popularity as consumers return
to experience the pleasures of shopping in
an old market town.
business community are beginning to
respond by joining as Partnership
Supporters. This is an active way of
keeping up to date with local
developments, joining in with distilling new
ideas and helping to implement positive
change. K
to local businesses' bottom line
`Makeover' Year with a new layout and more
Knoll in front of the Castle with coach and horses
ferrying people to and from the Market Place. The
Craft Fairs will return to the usual venues, but you
may notice more melodies as you walk around with
the addition of fairground organs and razzmatazz!
looking like extras for a Victorian drama; just watch
the faces of passing motorists!
best-dressed members of the public and stallholders
and for the best-decorated stalls. Be imaginative!
Get out your old rags and have some fun. Here's your
chance to express yourself and help to create a truly
Victorian atmosphere.
from a handle to a complete kitchen
but we do not outstay our welcome (we have
homes of our own to go to!)