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Hungerford must 'up its game'




Florist who sparked debate sums up

HUNGERFORD businessman Martin Bakker has said he has been “pleasantly surprised” by the response to an open letter regarding the town’s commercial future.

He said: “In general most people I have spoken to, business owners and local residents, have all agreed that Hungerford needs to up its game.

“I have read the responses and articles in the Newbury Weekly News with interest.”

Mr Bakker of High Street floral designers Martin and the Magpie, believes Hungerford “needs a big name to draw people in”, but added: “The last thing I want is for Hungerford to end up as another high street where there are hardly any independent shops.

“I feel we need a well-known brand or a big name, or maybe even an independent business of similar ilk, that people recognise and that adds some variety to, and fits in with, businesses in Hungerford.

“There are lots of opportunities up for grabs in Hungerford, but no one appears to be filling the gaps in the market place.

“With a town full of families, it’s surprising that not a lot of businesses cater for them. Hungerford is known for its antique shops, but doesn’t offer a lot for its existing townsfolk.”

Mr Bakker’s open letter to the community, published in the Hungerford edition of the NWN on August 27, sparked a lively debate, with fellow businessmen, politicians and residents chipping in.

It was fuelled by West Berkshire Council figures which showed that footfall in the town has been steadily decreasing over the past few years and by speculation that the proposed marina project will have a major impact, for better or worse.

Mr Bakker acknowledged the broad range of views subsequently published and said: “I wholeheartedly agree that Hungerford’s independent businesses make the town unique but I still believe there is space for a national, known name.”

He added: “Having spoken to lots of people in the past few weeks, it appears that the main issue seems to be the properties themselves – although many businesses are willing to rent empty properties, landlords seem unwilling to do them up first or rent them out as, in some cases, if they may end up having a conflict of interest with other businesses.

“Nor are the high business rates, set by West Berkshire council, helping new businesses.

“I’m pleased that the mayor, Martin Crane, agrees there are gaps in the market place which, if filled, might turn the tide in Hungerford.

“However I have to disagree with his point for businesses to consider Sunday trading. If Hungerford is lacking footfall throughout the week and Saturdays, why should independent businesses risk more costs by opening Sundays?”

Mr Bakker concluded: “I find Hungerford’s future worrying.

“With developments like the proposed out-of-town marina, people are given more and more reasons not to turn off at the A4 into Bridge Street and the High Street.

“The High Street is becoming less and less attractive for potential businesses and existing businesses will suffer if this continues. But may the debate continue!”



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