As is the case in other small towns, local businesses and shopkeepers in Frinton-on-Sea face many challenges in an uncertain economic climate. Shopping locally helps to support and retain our local shops.
The FRA supports the Frinton Businesses Group by encouraging visitors to the town through special events such as street parties and Christmas markets.
Improvements to the shopping area
The FRA has for sometime asked Essex County Council to consider banning lorries and delivery vehicles over a certain width from entering Connaught Avenue between 10.00 am and 4.00 pm Monday to Saturday particularly as there are service roads behind the shops that could be used.
ECC has previously stated that no changes are possible in Connaught Avenue as it is a "Priority 2 Route providing an essential traffic management distributary function." However the FRA will continue to monitor the situation and refer concerns to ECC accordingly.
Street appearance
Clutter, pigeon droppings and dirty pavements are regularly reported to the TDC Town Centre Co-ordinator who speaks to business owners in an effort to encourage them to keep the areas outside their premises, clean and tidy. The FRA continues to ask the Council to increase its cleansing regime with more frequent jet washing.
Tables and Chairs on the pavement
The town has seen an increase in the number of table and chairs in Connaught Avenue in recent years. The Council has relaxed its policies in this regard with the aim of supporting businesses as part of the post COVID pandemic recovery plan. Overall, the FRA welcomes and encourages an increased "café culture" as it is of benefit to local businesses. However, the FRA has raised concerns about non-licensing of this activity, which is contrary to the town's bye laws. More and more street clutter is appearing outside shops, which can be problem for people with health conditions or impairments.
The FRA continues to seek clarification on their policies regarding licensing of table and chairs in order to better manage the space used and what can be placed on the public highway – as ever, it is important the strike the right balance.