Regular free parking in Kenilworth could help boost footfall in the town centre.

That was one of a number of pieces of feedback from local businesses when asked about what needs to be done to support the town's high street.

Kenilworth Town Council (KTC) is working on a new initiative to promote local independents, and last winter launched a consultation to find out more from the town's retailers.

"Parking for free for a few hours would help," was one of the pieces of feedback submitted.

Of the responses received from the 120 local firms that were asked, some 80 per cent said they saw prospects for 2024 as "good to very good". 

The results - presented by KTC last week - also said 60 per cent of business owners feel the range of shops was good or better.

Just over half felt entertainment was good or better.

Meanwhile three quarters said banking facilities need to be improved.

"Having an effective infrastructure is vital," the council's report said. 

"Only 40 per cent of respondents felt that availability of premises was important, effective broadband was seen as the most important service to do business. 

"At 75 per cent it provided the highest score for any question asked. 

"The importance of spending-visitors can not be underestimated for all retailers and hospitality venues. 

"Events bring people and a range of stall holders to the town. 

"Seventy per cent of respondents said having visitors come to Kenilworth was very important and that maintaining footfall was critical."

Following the consultation, the council has committed to a six-point plan to drive its new business and visitor economy forum forwards.

Among those proposals - which received unanimous support - was a drive to work with Warwick District Council and market organiser CJ's Events Warwickshire to "bring impetus to increasing the number of stalls and footfall" at the Thursday market in Abbey End.

Other priorities for the forum are to boost secondary retail, increase awareness of funding support and arrange a public meeting to engage further with local businesses.