Peter Archer

Weston-super-Mare has renovated several vacant shops using part of a £20 million regeneration grant, but most remain empty, with only one reportedly let to a bakery. The column argues that the town's growing population could support more distinctive, higher-quality retail and criticizes the prevalence of low-value outlets and disruptive unlicensed busking. It also condemns North Somerset Council's delay in implementing high-street rental auctions, despite more than £1 million in government support being available to fund the staff and legal resources needed.