As improvement works near completion on Kettering’s Horsemarket work continues on Market Street , Market Place and starts soon on Sheep Street as part of a multi-million improvement programme to Kettering town centre.
Whilst talking face to face with local traders in this area of the town, the Council has been hearing positive feedback about the appearance of the works and its initial impact on shoppers.
Sam Hutchings from Honey Kitten, Beautiful Things for Children on Market Street said: "Personally I think the work that has been finished looks great and I am excited to see the finished product as it will be brilliant. More people seem to be coming down the street now and are having a browse. Customers have commented on how they usually don't go to this end of the town and they are pleasantly surprised about what they are seeing and finding. The pedestrianisation will be great for the street as kids will be able to run around and enjoy themselves."
Phillip Mitchell from the Market Street Mews Café said: "Following from the improvements to the top of Market Street we are now offering alfresco dining with a new menu on top of our favourite classics."
He also added "Once work is finished and the street becomes pedestranised we can really see this area taking off as people are encouraged to dine outside and watch the world go past.”
Keely Jones is setting up a new store in Market Place Mews, off Market Street called 'The Dolls House Store' which aims to offer a wide selection of dolls houses, furniture and accessories. Keely said: "Kettering was the ideal place for us to set up our new store. We were looking for an up and coming area with plenty of potential and with all the improvement works going on we felt this was the place. Market Street also offered us an ideal location supporting a range of independent and niche shops which will complement our own store."
Kettering Borough Council's Portfolio Holder for Regeneration, Councillor Mark Dearing said: "It is delightful to see positive feedback from traders in Kettering's Horsemarket and Market Street in response to the improvement works. It is also very encouraging to hear that footfall is increasing and we expect this to continue, especially once the works are complete."