Wrexham city centre is facing a raft of challenges, including high crime rates and poor transport links, leading residents to spend millions elsewhere, according to a new report. The document outlines a £20 million plan to revive the area's fortunes, which aims to secure government investment over the next ten years.
The report, compiled by the Wrexham City Board, which comprises community and business leaders, details how the city intends to boost its economy. The plan, acting as a business case for government investment, will see an initial tranche of funding allocated over the next three years.
The document highlights the "significant leakage" of spending from the local population. While Wrexham residents spend £113 million annually in the city centre, they also fork out £137 million in Cheshire Oaks, Broughton and Oswestry, all located outside the county. Furthermore, they spend £72 million online, and £41 million at the Plas Coch retail park, which intercepts visitors before they reach the city centre.
The report attributes these spending patterns to a combination of factors, including the convenience and popularity of out-of-town retail parks, particularly among time-constrained households. The report also points to high crime rates as a major deterrent, with Wrexham's crime rate almost twice the Welsh average at 181 incidents per 1,000 people. The report states that safety is a greater concern in Wrexham than in other parts of Wales, and while crime has fallen in the city centre police beat area over the past three years, it remains a "hotspot for both crime and anti-social behaviour."
Transport and parking problems are further exacerbating the situation. The report argues that public transport needs improvement, and driving should be made less appealing to encourage sustainability. To address these issues, the plan proposes improvements to walking and cycling routes, enhancements to local bus services and the introduction of smart parking sensors.
Senior councillors will be asked to approve the plan for submission to the UK government before the 1 August deadline. The success of this ambitious project hinges on the government's commitment to providing the necessary funding to revitalise Wrexham's struggling city centre and attract much-needed investment.
