CLOSURE of the New Bridge in Evesham could have a dramatic effect on trade in the centre of Evesham, the chairman of VECTA has warned.
Tony Rowland, chairman of the Vale of Evesham Commerce and Tourism Association, told members at the annual meeting at The Evesham Hotel: “It worries me, that some of the officers of the council don’t accept the effect on businesses.
“They have got to change the traffic flows as a priority so as we change people’s travelling habits coming into the town “We have lost a big chunk of our customer trade, which is not good, and for Evesham to survive we have got to reverse the trend.”
Mr Rowland said the town had suffered a double blow from the High Street enhancement works and the downturn in the economy and it was a horrible experience having to wave goodbye to staff because their wages couldn’t be afforded.
He said it was fantastic to see the number of festivals taking place in the town and a new one this year was the pie and ale festival in September.
VECTA membership was increasing as it became a more user-friendly organisation and they went forward with the thought that anything was possible with the skills available among the membership “We are here for one purpose only and that to enhance business activity in the town,” Mr Rowland said.
David Way, of the Civic Society, said he hoped the authorities would not go for the cheapest option for a replacement bridge. “We want a bridge than can be a feature and we ought to be campaigning for something that will be an asset to the town. It is very important.”
Peter Scott suggested a competition for the best design. Mr Rowland was re-elected chairman, Vicky Lawson elected vice-chairman, Louise Bugg secretary, and Jo Burrows treasurer and membership secretary.
This article is from the Evesham Journals and is credited to them.
