Tetra Tech Planning produced a comprehensive Town Centre, Retail & Leisure Study to inform creation of the new South Worcestershire Local Plan – a planning framework that aims to ensure development positively impacts the environment.
Working on behalf of Worcester City, Malvern Hills District, and Wychavon District Councils, our team set out to assist the formulation of future development plan policy and land use allocations.
The work undertaken for the study was underpinned by several items of new empirical research:
- a household telephone survey of 1,700 residents
- extensive engagement with key local stakeholders
- health check assessments of Worcester City and six other town centres across the combined authority region to look at their function, classification, composition, vitality and viability.
The study analysed current and emerging national and local economic trends and emerging shifts in retail and leisure spending. Furthermore, it produced retail floorspace capacity projections and an assessment of quantitative and qualitative need for additional retail and leisure needs across the region.
In consultation with key stakeholders, we recommended strategies for each city/town centre that considered the evolving role necessary for each centre to remain healthy, vital and viable. We also undertook a thorough review of emerging local plan town centre policies, suggesting recommendations on any revisions or additional policies required.
Tetra Tech Planning’s work in producing this study formed an important element of the evidence base to inform the new local plan. We continue to work with the South Worcestershire Councils and have been commissioned to provide updates to the evidence base document and town centre advice.
