The Department of Economic Development and Castletown Commissioners have jointly created a Town Team to investigate and promote retail and leisure opportunities for Castletown.
During the summer of 2014, the Department commissioned independent retail consultant Martin Sewell to undertake a study aimed at developing retail and leisure initiatives within Castletown.
The resultant report provided an insight into the current state of trading and commerce in the town as well as a range of suggestions for improvement.
In response to the findings of the report a ‘Town Team’ for Castletown has been created. This contains members of Castletown Commissioners, Castletown Chamber of Trade and local businesses, plus representatives from the Department of Economic Development and the Cabinet Office.
The Town Team will look at creating the first steps towards a long term strategy for the provision of retail and leisure opportunities in Castletown. This will incorporate a detailed plan to improve the perception and standing of the town and outline practical ways to achieve increased visitors and business to the area. This work will support the ongoing Regeneration Scheme and in collaboration with the Castletown Regeneration Committee will assist in enhancing Castletown’s offer.
The Island’s retail sector is an important source of employment with nearly 5000 employed within it. The Department supports it in a number of ways and worked with the Isle of Man Chamber of Commerce’s Retail Committee in developing the Isle of Man Retail Strategy which was launched in December 2013.
Independent retail consultant Martin Sewell commented:
‘The creation of the Town Team represents an important step forward in engaging all relevant parties to work together for the good of the retail sector in Castletown and to help stimulate further investment into the area.
‘The Retail Sector Strategy promotes the creation of “town teams” and this was agreed as being the best way to deliver a positive outcome.
‘The Team would be delighted to hear from anyone with comments or suggestions on the development of retail and leisure opportunities.’
Chair of Castletown Commissioners Richard McAleer commented:
‘The first few meetings have been very productive and I am delighted by the new businesses committed to coming to the town and we are actively progressing a number of other leads.
‘The newly created Town Team welcomes initiatives that will work at reversing current retail trends, along with seeking to invigorate the town centre.’
To add your comments or to find out more, please contact the Town Clerk for Castletown Commissioners Eddie Convery at CastletownCommissioners@manx.net
