Stockbridge - a magnet for businesses? Why does a small parish (pop ≈ 600 ) have, in or nearby, about 52 enterprises? The factors are: Geographical Historical Scenic/physical The snowball effect

Geographical At junction of two fairly busy main roads. A30 East- West. A3057 North-South = Good passing trade In a prosperous area But the marshy valley floor limits expansion

Historical ‘Burgess’ plots with many narrow buildings on High St Wide High Street perhaps made to allow a market – now allows parking Up to 1960s almost self-sufficient so that businesses premises were already in situ

Scenic - Physical Attractive setting – sticks in the mind Pleasing variety of buildings Free parking Places to shop; places to walk; places to eat Not a clone street. The Co-op is only national brand High browser appeal → good footfall The Stockbridge ‘brand’ has wide appeal

How did SEEDA grants help? The Town Hall – rescued from dilapidation The Scout hut – derelict: contribution to new build Town Manager – improved organisation and trader – parish council cooperation Tourist information 1. An information stand in the church 2. A food and walks guide ‘Trout and About’ annual street market Flashing 30 mph sign – in hand

New Scout Hut replacing one which was second- hand in 1960s

Tourist Information Info stand in churchFood and Walks Guide

The Town Hall Georgian, listed, community building – dingy, dilapidated, poor facilities, esp. for disabled Used by local organisations. Also as place to sell by various commercial operators so part of the town’s economy Important to upgrade to improve townscape SEEDA grant a. substantial element in cost of new build b. gave credibility and drew in other donors = snowball effect

The Town Hall before

The Town Hall now

What problems remain? PARKING As most workers in shops, businesses, etc live elsewhere. They come to Stockbridge by car. So on most working days cars are parked, reducing the available spaces for those visiting shops, businesses or services. Until lately the local ‘traders’ have not seemed concerned. Now they have recognised the problem, but a shortage of parking space off the High Street remains a major issue.