LOCAL AUTHORITY
THE ROAD
TO RECOVERY
Middlesbrough’s recovery
plan takes shape as the
town gets back to business
Middlesbrough Council has worked with key
partners and stakeholders to create a postlockdown
plan that will boost trade and
encourage visitors back to the town.
The town centre has been a particular area of focus,
with many retailers having reopened in June. Following
consultation with partners including Teesside University,
public transport operators and retailers, the council has
introduced a number of changes to increase customer
confidence and support businesses as they reopen.
The temporary measures include handwashing stations,
safety signage, one-way pedestrian systems and increased
regular cleaning of ‘touch points’ such as pelican crossing
buttons and street furniture.
Council workers were also temporarily redeployed to
new town centre ambassador roles to assist shoppers and
visitors. In a further show of support for business, free town
centre parking was implemented for an initial four-week
period from mid-June.
Things got off to a positive start, with footfall increasing
by 90 per cent and Middlesbrough faring better than the
national average. The safety measures are being regularly
reviewed by planners, to ensure they are fit for purpose as
more businesses reopen and visitor numbers increase.
Middlesbrough mayor Andy Preston said: “The
coronavirus pandemic has created a hugely challenging
climate for business, not just in Middlesbrough but
everywhere.
“The council will do all it can to support businesses to
reopen, and stay open. As well as safely encouraging
visitors and workers back to the town centre, staff have
worked tirelessly to process much-needed business funding
outlined by central government.
“Lockdown restrictions might be easing, but we know this is
really just the beginning as businesses adapt their operations
to fit the ‘new normal’. I’m confident the town will come back
with a vibrant new energy.”
Small businesses have been hit hard by the current
climate, particularly during lockdown. A campaign to support
Middlesbrough businesses was launched in April and is set to
continue as restrictions are eased.
The Buy Boro campaign promotes the benefits of buying
locally, with its online directory initially promoting businesses
offering delivery/collection during lockdown. As more
businesses reopen, the campaign will extend to encourage
consumers to shop locally, be it in person or online.
As Middlesbrough moves through its Covid-19 recovery
plan, the implementation of the council’s town centre strategy
will continue. The strategy outlines a clear vision for the future
of the town centre, increasing urban living, encouraging
business investment and making Middlesbrough the go-to
destination of the Tees Valley.
Though just at the beginning of what will be a turbulent
time for the UK economy, Middlesbrough is committed to
supporting business through this unprecedented challenge.
To keep up to date with business news in Middlesbrough, or speak to a member of the investment team,
visit investmiddlesbrough.co.uk. To add your business to the Buy Boro directory, visit buyboro.co.uk
42 | Tees Business