9:10am Wednesday 28th July 2010
A PART of town which traders feared would be forgotten when a supermarket relocated will receive a triple boost.
Business people in the north of Bishop Auckland were concerned for their future when Asda moved from the Newgate Centre to a new superstore at the former Wilson’s Forge site in 2002.
Like many small town centres, Bishop Auckland has suffered as a result of the economic downturn with the north of the town being badly hit.
But it is hoped that two new grants schemes and plans by a well known high street retailer to move in will turn around its fortunes.
Town mayor and cafe owner, Coun Lesley Zair, said: "I think we’ve lived through the fears and bad times after Asda moved, the reality is that there are empty shops up and down the town.
"I hope though that we’ve come through the worst, some of the empty shops are starting to fill and initiatives like these can only help keep pushing in the right direction."
The funding schemes are part of Durham County Council’s overall regeneration plan for the town and four retailers have already signed up.
Grants of up to £20,000 are available to help small businesses get established and existing companies to improve their premises in the historic Fore Bondgate area.
Regeneration officer, Ross Cowling, said: "We hope the grants will build on the small number of niche retailers thriving on Fore Bondgate and, in doing so, create further job opportunities and build on visitor numbers, boosting the whole town economy."
Cabinet member for regeneration and economic development, Coun Neil Foster, added: "Fore Bondgate is steeped in history and has a really unique character that many people already enjoy as part of their visit to this vibrant town centre.
"Quite simply, we want to make it even better, while retaining its unique atmosphere."
The council’s regeneration team will support fledgling businesses for a year to give them a stronger chance of survival.
Just around the corner from Fore Bondgate, health supplies firm Holland and Barrett hope to move into 14 Newgate Street.
The company has applied to the county council for planning permission to alter one of two Greggs bakery outlets in the town.
For information on the targeted buildings initiative contact Ross Cowling on 01388-761134 or ross.cowling@durham.gov.uk or for the empty shops initiative contact Joanne Urquhart on 01207-218063 or joanne.urquhart@durham.gov.uk.
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