Following five years of co-operative investment, the seaside town of Newquay is more than proving itself to be Cornwall’s rising star. Thanks to ongoing collaborative work by Newquay Business Improvement District (BID), the Town Council, a variety of partners and traders; plus ongoing investment from businesses across the town, Newquay has been making new waves. With record footfall figures, a plethora of positive press coverage and a successful transformation of its reputation and brand, the town is continually drawing new and loyal visitors to this North coast Cornish destination.
Over the past five years, several new and exciting independent businesses have been set-up, as key chefs, entrepreneurs and investors from across the country, and further afield, have begun to see Newquay as a unique lifestyle destination. A host of high-end and mid-level housing and second home developments are now underway as major hotels and hospitality establishments undergo refurbishments and re-development to keep up with the evolution and the high standards that are being set by key businesses.
Newquay has also seen considerable growth for many local businesses. Leading self-catering holiday accommodation provider, Aspects has recently opened a new office in Newquay, off East Street, which has already created a number of new jobs. The business has also seen a 20% increase on bookings this year and a noticeable trend that holiday makers tend to be booking earlier.
Other recent new businesses which have ventured towards Newquay due to recognising its business potential, include the Bullpit Smoke House, an authentic American BBQ Restaurant, Paul Harwood’s Fish House Restaurant, and Stein’s, opened by the world famous fish chef, Rick Stein, who was keen to open a restaurant on the iconic Fistral Beach.
Mel Rose, co-owner of Martha’s Tea room on Fore Street said: ‘We’ve been pleased with 2015 so far. We have had many returning visitors and are thankful for the continued support from our locals.’
Newquay BID Manager, Eve Wooldridge said, “It’s becoming so evident now that Newquay is really on the up. So many businesses, including a number of blue chip chains such as Ben and Jerry’s, Wetherspoons, Prezzo and Frankie & Benny’s have moved in, seeing the benefits of investment in the town. Many property developers, such as sustainable home pioneers, Verto Homes, are attracted not only by the stunning coastal setting of Newquay, but also by its ever increasing business potential. Naturally this is a very good sign for us.”
Eve continued, “Despite radical improvements, we must not become complacent. We are continuing to invest in Newquay with behind the scenes work to address the countrywide problem of vacant units, to create and distribute investment brochures containing key information and statistics to entice potential retailers to Newquay and to raise awareness of Newquay as a great trading location.”
Following two years of planning and discussions, Newquay BID is also finally all set for a complete renovation of its signage system which is currently being implemented. The vibrant new signs, which will firstly be erected in the town’s car parks, will add some colour and clarity to the currently confusing navigation system, helping visitors find all of Newquay’s retail offerings, delightful eateries and popular attractions.
To find out more about happenings in Newquay, including events and to check out the BID’s Independent Food & Drink Guide, see: https://newquaybid.co.uk/
