Concerns over restaurant and café closures in Cheltenham
A number of businesses have closed in the last year
Concerns have been raised over a “worrying trend” of restaurant and cafe closures recently in Cheltenham.
Tim Harman, former Cheltenham Borough Councillor and town resident, raised concerns at today’s (October 13) meeting at the Municipal Offices.
He pointed out that in recent weeks a number of popular restaurants and cafes have closed in the spa town including Ask in Montpellier, Ox in Cambray Place, and Cake Alchemist, Domain 16 and The Find in Regent Street.
“What steps is the council taking to support businesses of this type in these difficult economic times and to attract new businesses to invest in our town?” He asked in a written question.
Cabinet member Izaac Tailford (LD, All Saints), who is responsible for economic development and culture in the borough, said he was disappointed to hear about the recent closures of the “well-loved restaurants and cafés in Cheltenham”.
“The retail and hospitality sectors are facing significant national challenges and, as an authority, we recognise the impact this has on our businesses, their staff, and the wider economy,” he said.
“Many of the businesses you have mentioned have cited factors outside the council’s control in their reasons for closing.
“This has included business rates, which are set nationally, increasing rent, which is set by landlords, and wider economic pressures such as rising costs of materials.”
He said he wanted to reassure him that the council is doing all it can to support local businesses and attract new investment into Cheltenham
He highlighted the council’s marketing and promotion of the town, strong partnership working with Cheltenham Business Improvement District and other business groups.
The authority has also helped start-ups through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the council funds business support via the Growth Hub based at the Minster Exchange.
Cllr Tailford also spoke of the town centre vacant units action plan which found between eight and nine per cent of the retail premises in Cheltenham town centre are currently vacant compared to a national average of around 14%.
He also highlighted the spa town’s vibrant cultural sector which boosts the hospitality industry.
“We understand the pressures facing the hospitality sector and remain committed to promoting the town and working collaboratively with our partners to support businesses,” he said.
In a follow-up question, Cllr Harman asked if he agreed with him that there was a “worrying trend of so many well established restaurants and cafes closing”.
“It’s slightly worrying that it might be a trend,” he said.
Cllr Tailford agreed it was a worrying trend nationally but was not worried about the spa town.
“I’m not worried about Cheltenham because I think they do such a good job and our rates are much lower than the rest of the South West, let alone the country.
“However, obviously, as I say, we have to be vigilant.”