Chamber welcomes new retail strategy

Sinead McLaughlin, Chief Executive commented: “This Retail document gives a fair and detailed analysis of the retail offer in our City as well as examining the policy environment in which the retail offering operates within.”

The report prepared by Roger Tym & Partners and commissioned by Ilex and DSD has recommended an initial programme of action under five key areas: strengthened planning focus on city centre; city centre expansion; improved integration; co-ordinated and dynamic marketing; and a city centre framework for business agency co-ordination.

Sinead McLaughlin continued: “Our members tell us how difficult trading has been in recent months and the increase of VAT in the New Year will add even greater burdens on this already struggling sector. Our city centre streets are a testament to the difficulties of this sector, with increasing numbers of vacant premises. It is particularly difficult for our independent retailers, especially those trading in secondary retail locations.

“However, it is with optimism I say our centre is without doubt the jewel in Derry’s crown. It is not only our precious tourism product but it could be and should be a ‘destination retail shopping centre’ that compliments our ancient walls and encapsulates an unique leisure experience that expands the ‘brand Derry’ offering for all shoppers.

“In 2013, Derry will become the first UK City of Culture, we will be welcoming many visitors to our home town and we want to make each visit special. The shareholders of this city need now to sit down and work with this strategy to develop a business and action plan that will make considered and co-ordinated improvements in our existing and future offering.

“Derry City Council, Ilex and Government departments will be the lead agencies in delivering on the city’s retail strategy but the private sector has a major role to play in contributing their commercial expertise. The Chamber warmly welcomes the proposals to set up a strengthened City Centre Partnership with increased involvement of the retail sector. This strategy is just the beginning, all of us with a vested interest in our city centre need to stop the talking, roll up our sleeves and get our house in order – the visitors are coming.”