Three views on growing town business

4:10pm Monday 7th April 2008

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Colchester's business scene is evolving.

Town centre developments, including Vineyard Gate, which are in the pipeline, promise to bring investment to the town to benefit businesses and shoppers.

With thousands of new enterprises establishing themselves in the borough each year, Colchester's reputation as a place where businesses are nurtured, seems confirmed.

But with the good news come some tough challenges for the borough to face if it is to be known as a top business destination.

After the Colchester Town Partnership's (CTP) demise next Monday, Colchester Council is working with business leaders to devise ways to work together for the future prosperity of the town. But their remit will be confined to the town centre.

We asked three councillors - Don Henshall, the Colchester councillor in charge of business; Tim Young, Labour spokesman for business; and Paul Smith, Liberal Democrat spokesman for business - to give their views on what they want to do in the short-term to see business in Colchester succeed.

Tim Young, Labour spokesman for business said he wants to engage businesses to enhance the economy and attract new business to Colchester by working with regional agencies and going green.

Don Henshall, Colchester Council portfolio holder for business, listed town centre cohesion, helping rural businesses flourish and green issues as the three main topics he is working towards.

Paul Smith, said "listening to the business community" was one of the most important things to do, alongside creating jobs and of course, going green.