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City centre bosses and businesses have hailed the news that Worcester has been shortlisted for a coveted national award as ‘fantastic’ for the city.
The city is to battle it out with other cities, towns and villages in the Great British High Street Awards which aim to highlight new and innovative ways to boost commercial city centre areas.
Adrian Field, Head of Worcester BID (Business Improvement District), who compiled the award’s submission, said it was deserved recognition.
He said: “This is fantastic news for Worcester and the businesses who get involved in the events and campaigns such as the open4business promotion which was so successful in the aftermath of February’s devastating floods. Our High Street looks great with the recent resurfacing at the southern end and we have ridden the economic downturn well as we continue to welcome new businesses such as Moshulu, Joules and this week Swarovski with serious investment soon to take place at Cathedral Plaza.”
“We are delighted that Worcester has been shortlisted for this prestigious award,” said Cllr Marc Bayliss, Cabinet Member for Economic Prosperity. “The City Council is working hard to support our vibrant High Street, which is an essential ingredient to the success of our local economy.”
The submission also included the important role on the economy that events have on the High Street such as the Foodie Festival, Motor Show, Museums on the High Street (MOTHS) parade, Artillery parade, Christmas Fayre, Worcester Music Festival which all led to huge increases in footfall.
The contest is being run by the Future High Street Forum and received more than 135 entries from across the UK.
High Streets Minister Penny Mordaunt said: “There is a real sense of momentum behind our high streets and I’m determined that the hard work of people who have strived to make their high streets great places to work, shop and live is not only recognised but shared with others so they too can learn valuable tips for success.”
“We have seen a lot of enthusiasm for this competition and I’ve heard first hand on my tour on high streets around the country how proud people are of their streets and the value they place on them as an essential part of their community.”
The entries were whittled down to a shortlist and Worcester will now be visited on Monday by a member of the judging panel which consists of key players from the Forum. A winner will then be selected for each category and announced in a month.
The winners will win a share of £50,000 prize money and receive dedicated support and mentoring from industry experts.
