Template:Courier-OCT-25-18b

GREAT RESPONSE TO SHOPS AND BUSINESSES SURVEY

The response to a survey of Claygate's shops and businesses, carried out in the spring, has been hugely successful. The Shops and Businesses Advisory Committee of the Parish Council carried out the Claygate Shops and Businesses' Survey in April and was delighted to complete it on schedule, and with a fantastic response.

The Committee's target was to secure the involvement of 60 per cent of businesses in the village — but more than 70 per cent were reached. The Committee sees this as a really encouraging sign of interest and support and gives it confidence that the survey's findings will truly reflect the views of our business community.

The Committee thanks the dedicated team of local volunteers who visited every eligible business to deliver the survey invitation. By delivering the invitation letter and taking a moment to explain its purpose, the volunteers made sure every business had the chance to take part and understood why their views were important. The survey explored ideas and recommendations, from collective marketing initiatives to use of public car parks.

Analysis of the data has been delayed due to illness within the research team, but work is continuing and the full results will be shared in due course. Even at this early stage, the responses clearly show a high level of engagement and community spirit among Claygate's businesses. Thank you to everyone who took the time to take part — your input is vital as we work to keep Claygate a vibrant place to live, work and shop.