The number of vacant units in Altrincham town centre has seen a significant reduction over the last six months. The latest report on UK vacancy rates still shows the town as having a high level of empty shops but the information is well out of date.

Cllr Matt Colledge, Chair of Altrincham Forward and Leader of Trafford Council said: - "The figures recently announced by LDC relate to a survey undertaken in March this year. I am delighted to say that the situation is very different now. Just in the last week we have had a new music shop, two new restaurants and an independent craft shop open in the town centre. Later this week an art gallery opens and a large new outlet for vintage and crafts businesses.

Since Altrincham Forward began working in March, Altrincham has seen a steady upturn in new businesses and the number of vacant units has reduced significantly. In June the vacancy rate was 24% but a number of those units are in development areas such as the new hospital site on Railway St. If we discount those units then the rate drops to 16.3% - well below the average for the North West"

Altrincham Forward has been working with landlords, agents and businesses and can provide advice and support to local traders. There are now regular enquiries from new businesses and from some existing ones who want to expand. Work has also begun on the major transformational projects in the Town Centre Action Plan and details of much needed improvements will be
Made available over the next few months.

Cllr Colledge added: - "There is a real buzz around Altrincham at the moment. The evening economy is particularly strong with a large number of new music venues, bars and restaurants opened over the last few months. There is still a long way to go but we are now planning for a vibrant and successful Christmas season for the town centre"