Wellington fights back in bid to save high street

A new group has been formed to try and save Wellington’s High Street.

It comes after it was announced that WMC Retail Plc, which runs the town’s historic market is in financial crisis. Wellington Town Council has brought together members of the local Chamber of Commerce, business leaders and local councils to discuss ways they can help co-ordinate efforts to rejuvenate Wellington High Street.

The group met for the first time on Thursday and agreed a number of actions including to work in partnership to support ongoing efforts to tackle empty retail space, improve the street scene and increase footfall.

It could involve help from Telford & Wrekin Council, who have a number of ways that they can improve the look of the town centre and also help traders boost their marketing. The group has revealed they will be working with the borough council to undertake some survey work to understand the trends in the town as an immediate first step.

The group initially is made up of representatives from Telford & Wrekin Council, Wellington Town Council, Wellington Chamber of Commerce and local business leaders. It is hoped that the new group will also work with residents and other organisations in the town as they set about the task of rejuvenating Wellington for shoppers, and to keep it vibrant in future.

Councillor Stephen De Launey, from Wellington Town Council who is chairing the new group, said: “We have been trying to address some of the challenges facing the town for a few years now and perhaps have not been highlighting these efforts enough.

“However, it is apparent that there are a number of organisations who are doing some really good work in Wellington and we want to try and bring them together and co-ordinate efforts to better effect.”

Councillor Phil Morris Jones from Wellington Town Council added: “It is refreshing to see so much passion and commitment to make a difference in Wellington. There has been lots of good work and there are many positive potential developments in the pipeline – but we must make sure that we don’t develop another talking shop. Action is what is required.”

Frank Lauriello, from Wellington Chamber of Commerce, said: “This is a positive step and over the coming months we hope to get as many businesses, organisations and residents behind this renewed effort as possible.”

Councillor Lee Carter, Telford & Wrekin Council cabinet member and ward member for Wellington’s college ward. said: “There are some opportunities coming up particularly with the announcement by the borough council of new investment to help tackle empty retail space, improve shop frontages, provide marketing support, provide Wi-fi access and upgrade street lighting.

“I’m pleased that we’re coming together not only to highlight what has gone on so far but also to make sure we capitalise on any opportunities in a co-ordinated and effective way.”

Earlier this week it was revealed that Wellington Market Company (WMC) is looking for investors after cash problems saw it suspend the sale of shares.

Traders were told the company was undergoing a valuation process for all its properties. Wellington Town Council said it was extremely concerned by the news, and would be looking at ways of working with others to help safeguard the historic market, which was established in 1244.

In a report to the stock market, WMC said: "The directors are seeking a significant funding package to secure the immediate future for the company, however there is no assurance that the company will be able to raise sufficient funds.

“At the current time, the company is reliant on the support of creditors, customers and shareholders to enable it to continue to trade.”

The firm made a loss last year of £51,000 on sales of £4.2 million.

Esther Worboys, for WMC, added: “ We are currently speaking to various investors in order to be able to action some of our long-term strategic plans.”