MELKSHAM Town Council is encouraging local businesses to be on the look out for new opportunities as more people swap city life for the “shires”.
The town council says, “The Telegraph reports estimates that the capital’s population has tumbled by almost 10% during the pandemic, with huge potential consequences for its economy. Even once the pandemic has ended for the capital, London’s population bust may be one of the longest lasting legacies from the crisis.
“The big question is how many of those people will return to the capital post pandemic, and what this means for towns like Melksham.
“A sustained decline in city population would dent demand for services and hit restaurants, retail, bars and clubs, property rents and values. But pressure would be eased on transport and housing.
“Already increased demand is reported for out-of-city rural properties as city workers see the benefits of living in the shires, working from home or from local co-working spaces, supported by their employers.
“In a step further, Spotify has announced a ‘Working from Anywhere’ policy although the company does stipulate that time zones would need to be broadly compatible.
“So where does this leave Melksham and its surrounding area? We are well placed for those who need to make occasional trips back to the office in the capital. Housing is more affordable, and the pace of life is a little slower. But we need to be ready to capitalise on opportunities generated.
“Workers relocating to a home or local base will need all sorts of things, creating opportunities for those who spot them and are agile enough to react. Some ideas: Great coffee; daily lunches – eat in, eat out, make your own; lunch deliveries; post-work drinks options to ward off any feelings of isolation; co-working space for those who still crave an ‘office’ and company; office supplies, equipment, systems and support; meeting spaces (to meet colleagues and clients perhaps?)
“So, you can see the potential. Time to keep your ears to the ground, ask questions and know your customers’ needs. And above all, be agile.”
