Enniskillen Remains Vibrant Even in this Economic Climate
Published on Thu, 11 Nov 2010
by comms@doeni.gov.uk.
The DOE’s Planning Service today announced the results of the ‘Enniskillen – Shopper Views & Retailer Views Surveys 2010’ as part of its “town centre” health check.
The Shopper Views Survey revealed that Enniskillen is an attractive and friendly town, with a wide range of shops and goods to offer people from both sides of the border. However, shoppers still expressed concern on traffic congestion, parking problems and availability of public toilets.
The Retailer Views Survey revealed that the economic downturn has had an impact on the town’s changing retail landscape and that 57% of retailers anticipate lower profits due to a decline in the number of customers and thus sales.
Retailers answering the survey expressed a number of concerns about parking, traffic, increasing levels of shop vacancies, lack of signage and the impact of the new chain stores and out-of-town multiple stores. However, they also felt that the number of independent stores in the town was an important strength, as was the attractive and well-maintained streetscape.
Chris Boomer of Planning Service commented: “The ‘Enniskillen – Shopper Views & Retailer Views Surveys’ demonstrate that, even in these tough economic times, Enniskillen remains a relatively vibrant and attractive shopping town, with a positive future ahead.
“The findings from both the surveys will be used to inform and develop a new town centre master plan being prepared by the Department for Social Development, in partnership with Fermanagh District Council, Planning Service and other Government Departments and Agencies.”
Notes to editors:
1. A copy of the report can be accessed here
- Planning Service Development Plan Team based in Omagh under Dr Chris Boomer, undertook two surveys in Enniskillen during the summer of 2010. The findings will be used in the preparation of a Town Centre Strategy for any future Area Plan for Fermanagh, as well as the current Masterplan.
- A Masterplan for Enniskillen Town Centre is currently being prepared for the Department for Social Development (DSD, Regional Development Office), by consultants - Scott Wilson.
- The Retailer Survey forms were issued to 245 retail businesses in Enniskillen, for postal return, with a 24% response rate achieved. For the Shopper Survey, 400 on-street questionnaire forms were completed.
- All media enquiries should be directed to the DOE Press Office on 028 9054 0003. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
