Mark Garnier spent an afternoon meeting with Kidderminster Town Centre Manager Jackie Roberts to learn more about what is happening with Kidderminster's retail economy. The good news is: its OK. Whilst some town centres across the country are seeing 25% vacancy rates, Kidderminster is currently just below 10% and that is a credit to the team that have been running the town.
Significantly, a large number of people who shop in Kidderminster are from outside Wyre Forest, bringing in revenue from outside our district.
Mark says: "The fact is, Kidderminster has a lot to offer. The town centre flowers are quite something, the market is a big draw, and when you wander around town on a Saturday, the place is buzzing. That is all good, but it is important to look below the surface. We still need to boost Wyre Forest's local economy more in order to have more wealth amongst locals - currently enjoying just two thirds of the national average salary. We also need to keep tourists in the district for longer, and increase their daily spend.
"The work of Jackie Roberts, district council officers, and the vision of our local councillors is incredibly important to the development of our local town and the credit goes to them. But it is also important that Wyre Forest has the support and leadership of an MP who understands the local economy, and who can be a strong voice to take Kidderminster - and our whole district - to the next stage. Its time for change."