Manual for District Centre Managers - the ATCM

32
Measures
Measures and instruments that were taken for
the MANDIE project focused on the revitalization
of the shopping functions of Bredabaan,
such as:
Because of the problems mentioned above,
the city of Antwerp developed strategic
ideas in cooperation with the partners. A
strategic vision has been elaborated that
states general objectives. A number of
short-term and mid-term objectives were
formulated in order to improve the situation
on the Bredabaan with respect to the problems
identified. In addition, measures that
are suited to counteract downgrading and
continued loss of image in the area were
identified. General objectives were the implementation
of a shop vacancy management
as well as a diversification of the local
retail offer. On the other hand, action towards
controlling unwanted development
as well as issues of public space are not in
the authority of the Town Centre Management.
In particular, Antwerp concentrates on
stimulating new business projects
attracting new retailers
stimulating communication between
several stakeholders
improving commercial mix
developing an identity (branding)
renovation subsidy as a tool for vacancy
management.
Renovation allowances: The renovation of
commercial premises was promoted by an
allowance funded by EFRD (European Fund
for Regional Development).
Allowance for “renovation of the façade”
amounting to 75% of the invoice amount
(excl. VAT); with a maximum of 17,500
EUR. These works must at least cost
1,500 EUR (excl. VAT)
Allowance for the beautification of the
commercial space at the rate of 50% of
the in-voice amount excl. VAT with a
maximum of 7,500 EUR. These works
must at least cost 1,000 EUR (excl. VAT).
Sticker project: Information stickers were
designed that cover empty shop windows:
They express customers’ and traders’
expectations in terms of desired retail
in the area (information gathered from
passers-by surveys and workshops with
retailers, catering managers, owners
and associations in the context of the
strategic visions)
Each sticker displays expectations
specifically in alignment with the available
commercial property. Pictures can
be changed with each new use.
Benefits: Interested persons immediately
know if the activity meets the expectations
of the location, it is a pragmatic
way to get in touch with owners of
commercial premises, stickers give tangible
and efficient guidance, an extra
trust allows a development to achieve
the best response to the local trade
offer.
Results and Transferability
The city of Antwerp successfully implemented
a shop vacancy management and continues to
focus on the diversification of the local retail
offer.