Brentwood High is undergoing a major refurbishment which will look amazing when it is finished. Most of Brentwood agrees that it is needed for the economy and will be an advantage for the town. But along with the ‘credit crunch' High Street businesses are struggling.



Press reports have said that people, in general, are giving up longer car journeys because of high fuel prices and beginning to shop locally, local businesses do not believe this to be true.

Worrying figures show that there are now 20 empty business premises in the High Street, Ongar Road and Crown Street. These are not just small local businesses they include the closure of large organisations Betfred, Moben Kitchens, Adams and Clinton Cards, who still have one small outlet but they closed a large store in the High Street, both use to be very busy.

Local Lib Dem Councillor for Brentwood West, Karen Chilvers has launched a campaign ‘Use Them or Lose Them 75% Shopping Commitment'. Karen and her colleagues are determined to use 75% of small local businesses for all their daily requirements. They are keeping a daily record of all the businesses they use each week, and encouraging everyone else to do the same.

Brentwood Council are helping local businesses with the launch of the Keep Trade Local Retail Loyalty Card Scheme. This seems to be a good idea, but it needs the majority of the High Street to take part for benefits to be noticeable

Brentwood's saviour is, apparently, going to be the new 250,000 sq ft development to include a 6 screen cinema, multi storey car park, retail section and 14 flats. General feeling is that a cinema would be good for the town, but on a smaller scale. There is a worry that the cinema and complex will attract unsociable behaviour. There are many bars in Brentwood and these attract an influx of young people from out of the area, and the press is often reporting trouble, mainly at the weekends.

When this project is complete it is hoped that the complex will be maintained and patrolled properly with permanent security. A good example is nearby Festival Leisure Park, Basildon. This was built many years ago in an area that had problems, but it has 24 hour security and there have never been any major incidents reported there.

Car Parking is a big issue for Brentwood residents and businesses. Brentwood Council are offering discounts in the multi storey car park, while the High Street development is taking place. Most local businesses think that parking should be free of charge in all car parks while the work is carried out.

There are a vast amount of commercial premises in the Borough and large businesses have been in Brentwood for many years and still remain there.

The St Faith's hospital site was part of a major development some years ago creating a major business landmark. British Telecom has their head office there now. The Ford Motor Company has been in Brentwood for many years.

Amstrad has been operating from the Amstrad Building in Kings Road, filming of The Apprentice was from here. They have recently relocated their offices opposite in Kings Road. The building is now undergoing a major refurbishment to become a Premier Inn hotel. This is great for Brentwood and in a good location, close to the station and business areas.