Altrincham town centre action plan agreed (From Messenger Newspapers)

Altrincham Forward Board to consult over action plan for Altrincham

5:56pm Tuesday 19th June 2012 in Altrincham

A GROUP set up to revaitalise Altrincham has drawn up an action plan.

An Altrincham Forward Board meeting has agreed a blueprint for the next 12 months.

The plan will now be the focus for a series of public engagement and consultation events over the summer.

Cllr Matt Colledge, chairman of Altrincham Forward, said: “Over the past few months we have identified the priority actions needed in the town centre and worked out just what we can do to address the key problem areas. That work is now beginning and we want views and suggestions from the whole community on a wide range of issues.”

The action plan includes a scheme for the temporary use of vacant shop units, the rejuvenation of the market, development of a year round programme of events for the town and a new landlords’ forum.

Work is also underway on a campaign to bring more independent businesses to Altrincham and to provide improved support to existing businesses.

The board also agreed a detailed marketing and communications strategy.

Helen France, Trafford’s lead officer for Altrincham, said: “We are now working hard to identify the resources needed to get things done. I am delighted to say we are receiving regular offers of help from businesses and individuals and we look forward to even more people getting involved.”

Stephen Nicol, MD of economic research consultancy Regeneris and Altrincham Forward Board member, added: “Deciding what were the priorities to be addressed has taken time to agree, but we now have a programme of activities that will make a major contribution to the revitalisation of the town centre. It is now time for everybody to get on board and work together to make that change happen.”

Details of how residents can get a copy of the plan, together with dates for the various consultation events, will be announced over the next few weeks.