Signs of an upturn on the UK's high streets are already being detected in one of the country's favourite seaside towns. Southend, home to the world's longest pier, is faring better than a number of other retail centres, with retail units still being let. The town's borough council has attracted major high street brands and predicts that, despite feeling the effect of the economic downturn, it will continue 100% occupancy in its shopping centre. In March this year, Next expanded its shop within the town and opened 20,000 sq ft of retail space. At Easter, H&M fitted out a second shop in the borough, and officials believe initiatives such as rate relief have also proved to attract new business. In addition, continuing a capital spending programme and a new business directory have promoted local trade. A Southend Council spokesman said: ‘The council works closely with the chamber of commerce and Town Centre Partnership plus other businesses to maximise the trade we can attract to the town and has introduced several initiatives to help reduce vacant business space. ‘Southend has a good track record in retail, and has continued to experience significant regeneration and investment within this sector.'
