Councillors last night welcomed a report from the Eastbourne Credit Crunch Task Group that highlighted encouraging signs of an economic upturn in the town.
The third, in a series of local economy snapshots, identified a number of emerging facts that supported the view of a town responding positively to the effects of the current economic conditions.
The report confirms:
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Growth in business confidence and activity
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A significant increase in house sales in Eastbourne
(Dec 2008 = 277 - Dec 2009 = 527)
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Overall rises in house prices in the town
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Increased footfall in the town centre and on the seafront
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Online accommodation bookings are up
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Tourism website hits continue to rise
Leader of Eastbourne Borough Council, Councillor David Tutt, said, “While there remains considerable concern about the economic outlook for our local businesses, I’m pleased to receive a report that shows early indications of better times ahead.”
The news follows hot on the heels of a new commission set up by Eastbourne MP, Stephen Lloyd, which will tackle head on a series of challenges facing the town. It is anticipated that the Task Group will work strategically with the Commission over the next 12 months on areas of shared interest.
Councillor Tutt added, “There is a discernable sense of optimism and energy in the town that must be maintained and encouraged. There are no overnight solutions to the economic problems that businesses face; however, I am sure that by bringing the right expertise and knowledge together we can make a very positive difference.”
