ALTRINCHAM has come out on top once again – this time ranking as one of the Top 10 ‘premium opportunities’ in the UK.

The list, compiled for Property Week magazine, identified the 10 towns and cities in the UK with the greatest capacity to support more premium retail brands within their centres.

This is dramatic turnaround for the town – five years ago it was handed the less prestigious title of the highest number of vacant shop units in the UK.

This unflattering accolade prompted Trafford Council to set up Altrincham Forward, which was charged with driving improvement in the town, and enhancing its appeal to investors and businesses.

Initiatives include an interest-free town centre loans scheme, which has assisted 13 new businesses to open to date, a new transport interchange, £600,000 investment in Altrincham Market and investment in the public realm. The hard work seems to be paying off and the town is gaining national recognition for commercial success.

Altrincham is in the running to be named best town centre at the Great British High Street Awards and Altrincham Market and Market House was crowned winner of the ‘Best Local Market’ at the 2015 Observer Food Monthly Awards.

Cllr Michael Young, Executive Member for Economic Growth and Planning, said: "The transformation of Altrincham town centre over recent times could not have been achieved without not only the council's investment, but equally importantly the true commitment there has been to working in partnership.

“The input and influence of local businesses, partners and other key people all wanting to work together to bring about real sustainable improvements is now paying dividends.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank those involved in the public/private Altrincham Forward partnership for all their efforts. I know that the strength of belief in the town centre and determination to continue working together to bring about further improvements and opportunities will continue to stand Altrincham in good stead."

For more information about Altrincham Forward email altrincham.forward@trafford.gov.uk.