Chippenham Community Town Team​
Surveys and Statistics
Shoppers Survey
After the town centre had reopened in 2021the Town Team conducted a customer survey using several social media sites and a physical weekly presence with a gazebo on the Town Bridge. There were also paper questionnaires available at the Community Hub.
One of the interesting responses was the perception by many that there are not enough independent shops in town - which later you will see is not reflected in reality.
The positive response highlighting the perception that there is already a community feel in town was good to build on as was the appreciation of the green spaces and parks.
A further survey will be rolled out later this year
Vacancy Survey
Using the 'Purple Flag' area of Chippenham town centre, four members of the Town Team have now conducted three Vacancy Surveys by walking their area and talking to the traders.
The results have been sectioned into the four Quarters which then enables an instant map of activity and reference to those with the highest independent businesses.
The result is then sent to Springboard who co-ordinates this with similar surveys throughout the South West.
The latest result sees a drop in the vacancy rate in the town from 8.9% three months ago to 7.8%.
Although there appears to be a reasonably high rate of vacancy in Borough Parade, the new owners have three new tenants due to sign up together with a property on the High Street which is now also about to be filled.
Investment in both Shopping centres by two active national companies is welcomes active team members from Evolve and Acorn Estates on the Town Team and Partnership Board.
There are, however, three empty properties in this area that are long-term vacant; there is the prospect of losing the Midland Bank in the Autumn; and the prospects of some increased variation due in the Artisan area by the time of the next survey..
These are on the radar of the Town Team.
