Welshpool to be promoted as a ‘destination’

Welshpool is set to be relaunched as a destination of choice with a town centre manager in charge for marketing it to the world!

That’s the dynamic route chosen by the town’s businesses who have sent a united message that Welshpool is a town we should all be proud of and not be afraid to show it.

Local businesses laid out their plans at this week’s Welshpool Projects Business Forum and they were backed by town planners who said they will seek funding to have a town centre manager in place as soon as possible.

Town Clerk Robert Robinson said he will ask the Welsh Assembly Government for funding when Business Minister Edwina Hart visits the town this summer.

“The Minister will be paying the town a visit and will be with us for a couple of hours so we will take the opportunity to seek support,” he said.

“There is a pot of money available for towns so it is important that we let her know what Welshpool has to offer.”

The forum will also publish ‘Discover Welshpool’ material with a map of the town’s shops and attractions identified as part of the campaign to encourage people to shop locally. The group will also complete a directory of where you can buy things in the town.

Heather Sherlock of M&Co said Welshpool has plenty to offer. “This town is full of unique shops and businesses. You can buy anything here and we need to be talking ourselves up more.

“We have so much more to offer than other towns and we need to be more positive and shout about ourselves.”

Forum chairman, Councillor Steve Kaye, said: “I like the idea of a town centre manager who could concentrate on promoting Welshpool. It is a specialist job.”

Christine Holmes of Flaunt It added: “Welshpool offers a special shopping experience with its many independent traders.”

The new Marketing offensive comes at a time when the town has pledged to blitz anti-social behaviour which many businesses believe has impacted on business and reputation.

PICTURE: Courtesy of Owain Betts