Retailers should not see Alma Estate regeneration as a 'threat' (From Enfield Independent)

Ponders End retailers should not see Alma Estate regeneration as a 'threat'

5:50pm Tuesday 17th July 2012 in News By Hermione Wright

Retailers in a Ponders End estate should not see the area’s regeneration as a “threat” to their businesses, according to Enfield Council.

The council announced this week it will demolish the Alma Estate to make way for a £100million development project, which will see approximately 1,000 new homes and shops built within the next ten years.

Shop workers in South Street, which is on the edge of the estate, are concerned their businesses will be moved to less desirable locations.

Leaseholders Sagar and Sashi Karamsadkar, who have run Ginger's News in South Street for 27 years, believe they will be moved closer to Ponders End Station while the major work is being carried out.

However, cabinet member for business and regeneration, Councillor Del Goddard, said: “Enfield Council believes the plans for the area will present an exciting opportunity for existing retailers rather than a threat.

“When the school opens and new homes are built the existing retailers will be one of the main beneficiaries.”

According to Cllr Goddard, no decision has yet been made on where the new shops will be built, although this is part of an “overall masterplan” which is to follow.

He said retailers will have an opportunity to influence the designs for the estate as well as the new retail units in future council meetings.

He added: "The council wants every existing retail businesses in and around the Alma Estate to remain in this part of Ponders End.

New shops will be provided in the redeveloped estate and the existing retailers will have first option on these shops.”

The council claims it is preparing a package of support for existing retailers, which will include business advice as well as make clear the options available to them.

According to the council, timescales for the project will be shared with people living in the 717 properties in the estate as well as the retailers this Autumn, once the phasing plan for the work has been agreed.