Local businesses gather to hear economic plans for Thame

THAME businesses met at the Spread Eagle, Thame, yesterday to hear the latest developments in an economic development plan for the town.

After a introduction by Thame First ‘anchor man’ Matthew Cundy, Peter Farquar, Manager of The Spread Eagle, welcomed members and guests, including the Mayor of Thame, Jeannette Matelot Green, and then Caroline Wood, Economic Development Officer for South Oxfordshire District Council, explained why the plan was necessary and what would soon be happening in the town to kick start the plan.

“Market towns are changing and need support,” she said. Caroline explained that part of the plan was to commission a visitor survey to find out who was coming to the town, what they are using it for and why they may go somewhere else. She suggested that everyone could help by asking their employees whether they shop in the town, and if not, why not?

“We will share all that information with you,” she continued, “and work with consultants too who have expertise and skills to work out what makes your town unique and special and use that information to market the town with key attractions, and encourage entrepreneurs into the town.”

A business survey is soon to be carried out in Thame, which will see questioners out and about at locations throughout the town.

Caroline asked that the town’s businesses help them (SODC) to move forward and work with Thame First and 21st Century Thame.

“There is a pot of money for the grabbing,” (SEEDA funding and