Call for chain store to revitalise town centre

Mixed views from traders over falling footfall solution

FALLING footfall in Hungerford has prompted calls for a “big name” store to revitalise the town.

One shopkeeper has suggested that Hungerford can no longer rely solely on independent stores to draw visitors.

Martin Bakker, of High Street floral designer Martin and the Magpie, has written an open letter to residents, printed on our letters pages today (page 24).

In it, he says Hungerford is failing to thrive like other market towns, including Newbury or Marlborough in Wiltshire.

Hungerford’s small, independent shops are its unique attraction but, at the same time, its greatest drawback, claims Mr Bakker.

He said that, hitherto, “big names aren’t allowed in” and that consequently “Hungerford isn’t evolving... it’s only a matter of time before it’s bled a slow death.”

Earlier this month, official West Berkshire Council figures showed footfall in Hungerford had steadily fallen over the past four years.

District councillor Paul Hewer (Con, Hungerford) backed Mr Bakker’s call to think the unthinkable.

He said a chain store “would do no harm”, and added: “A Costa Coffee would be good, too, or a nice restaurant. But people are fearful and dismissive of change.

“We really need to do something and I intend to discuss it with [West Berkshire Council chief executive] Nick Carter. We need to get a debate going about the future of Hungerford.”

However, others remain unconvinced.

Alex Milne-White, of the independent Hungerford Bookshop, said: “People don’t expect chain stores when they come to Hungerford, although a coffee shop would be okay. Costa did apply, indirectly, to have a High Street outlet but the application was rejected.

“Hungerford must retain its unique character.”

Co-owner of Hungerford Arcade, Adrian Gilmour, was adamant that the town should not aspire to host chain stores.

He said: “I don’t know where they get these footfall figures from – we’ve had a record year.

“Hungerford is unique; it has marshes and meadows and commons – Newbury and Marlborough don’t.

“We need to market it is a tourist destination more.

“If you want big stores, by all means go to Basingstoke or Swindon. If you want a really unique shopping experience, then come to Hungerford.”

What do you think of Mr Bakker’s views? Have your say – email john.garvey@newburynews.co.uk or telephone (01635) 564 528.