Campaign launched to regenerate Wellington
A new campaign which aims to boost Wellington and encourage more visitors and businesses to the town has been launched.
As well as combatting traders' recent concerns of footfall, the Love Wellington movement also hopes that civic pride will be enhanced, meaning that local people will feel more positive about their environment.
Both Wellington Town Council and the regeneration board of Telford & Wrekin Council are backing the initiative, which is being led by business consultant Sally Themans, who helped steer Bridgnorth to victory in the Great British High Street competition in 2016 through her platform, Love Bridgnorth.
She said although Wellington is not the same as it was 50 years ago, it still has many great things to shout about and that Love Wellintgon aims to highlight this.
“Wellington is a great town with a lot going for it and we are determined to fight back against the national headlines declaring the death knell for the High Street,” she said.
Sally has recently become a High Street champion – part of the High Street Symposium providing evidence to the Ministry of Housing Communities and Local Government.
She added: “There are many high quality long-established businesses, as well as new exciting independents opening here, and so many people who really want to see the market and town centre thrive.
“It's true that there is an over capacity of retail space in Wellington but the repurposing of some of the units is underway along with ventures such as The Orbit cinema in the former HSBC building and PR consultant Nathan Rous taking over the former NatWest building.
“There are also plans afoot to develop more residential space in the town centre which will create more demand for an enhanced night time economy."
Appeal
The Love Wellington team consists of local people who want to highlight its appeal, and intend to promote its positive aspects throughout 2019.
“When people feel better about their town they are more likely to start changing their habits – staying and shopping in it – and the more they use it, the more it thrives as new businesses are attracted," she said.
“It's not going to happen overnight, it’s a slow build, but we are delighted at progress so far.”
Councillor Cindy Mason-Morris, mayor of Wellington, said: “Wellington benefits from great transport links including free parking and a modern train station, parks and open spaces.
"There is a positive environment for all businesses, especially those that are forward thinking.
"Wellington Town Council continues to listen to residents and visitors and strives to deliver what they tell us our town centre needs.”
For further information on the Love Wellington campaign, contact Sally Themans on 07966 568650.
