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/physicalThe 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 church Food 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 80 - 100 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.