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Issues & action
Issues & action

This is the page where we will track the issues the Chamber is discussing and keep you up to date with the actions being taken. The preliminary list of issues shown here will grow in the coming months and will benefit from members’ input, so do please let us know what is of interest / concern to you.

Axminster’s future

The issue:

Axminster is at an important crossroads. Like many small towns, it has seen a succession of shop closures over recent years in the face of competition from larger towns and from online shopping. There have also been substantial job losses in the traditional carpet industry. On the plus side, there has been some evidence of recovery, with the notable re-emergence of Trinity House as a home for small local businesses. With the Local Plan under active development by EDDC and the Neighbourhood Plan being progressed by Axminster Town Council now is a time of hope. It is important that businesses have a voice in all that is being considered.


Action:

We will engage with local government on issues affecting businesses and press for funding to be made available from all levels of government to help boost Axminster for the future. We will also drive initiatives that contribute to the overall cause and partner with other local organisations whenever we can.

Axe Vale Show

The issue:

The Chamber is a long time supporter of the Show, which has not run during the past two pandemic afflicted years. In 2022, we would like to re-establish a presence at the show and need to agree the most effective way in which to achieve that, including involvement from members.


Action:

Plans are being prepared for discussion at the next management committee meeting.

Xmas 2022

The issue:

In 2021, the Light Up Axminster switch-on event for Christmas Lights was a memorable one that drew many people onto the streets for the first time in a while. But many felt the town then ‘goes quiet’ in the final run to Christmas and would benefit from greater coordination of activity amongst retailers, including late night opening.


Action:

Chamber will be discussing the issue as the year develops with a view to having a plan in place in good time for Christmas ‘22.

Icon Attribution: Snowglobe by Pajaree M, Circus Tent by Stepan Voevodin, Christmas Tree by P Thanga Vignesh