TRADERS and shoppers are set to come together for a series of festive events and workshops next month in a bid to relaunch the new-look Droitwich High Street.
Plans are in place for a variety of events which will showcase what the town has to offer and put the high street back on the map.
With a provisional launch date of December 2, there will be a celebration event, a Nativity scene, late night shopping throughout the month and a pop-up Christmas shop from the Jinney Ring Craft Centre at 28 High Street.
Rachel Harrison, owner of the beauty salon Inspire, and Viv Findley from HoteslshopUK, are leading the drive and are hoping to rally as many other traders and organisations as possible to get involved.
She told The Standard: “This is a chance to support local traders and boost businesses on the High Street.
“The roadworks have been going for months now and we want people to come together to showcase what they have to offer the public.
“Droitwich Spa is actually a very vibrant town here and is accessible for people of every age.”
The relaunch comes after controversial roadworks blocked off the popular street for up to eight months leaving traders fearing for the future of their businesses.
As part of a £650k revamp, with £150k from Wychavon District Council and £500k from Worcestershire County Council, the High Street has been transformed to make the town centre more welcoming to visitors and shoppers.
Following a public consultation, the improvements will retain vehicular access and provide access for pedestrians and less-mobile users.
Rhys Jones, treasurer of Droitwich Arts Network, is due to meet with Rachel today with a view to some of the town’s arts organisations taking part in the relaunch.
He said: “We have a couple of members who are interested in getting involved.
“One possible idea could be to have photo walks through the town or a photo marathon where people are challenged to take photos of as many shops in an allocated time.
“Whatever we do, it is all about visiting the shops on the High Street and supporting the local businesses.”
Anymore businesses or organisations interested in getting involved in the High Street relaunch should call Rachel on 01905 780807.
More information is also available at www.facebook.com/droitwichhighstreet .
