Assessing the potential of Paola retail centre

Abstract

Poala town centre has experienced various changes in the last ten years. The town centre is the core of the urban area, and land use changes occurring here are crucial in determining the well being of the urban environment. The opening of retail outlets demonstrates the vitality of the town, which brings with it investment in the town centre. The land use survey carried_ out for this research aims to provide a clear picture of the changes which have occurred, and of the frequency and distribution of land uses. Paola, as a primary retail centre, has recently undergone a Town Centre Health Check carried out as part of the Retail Topic Paper. This dissertation seeks to analyse this Health Check in view of potential town centre management. It proves the importance of mapping and the need to incorporate this data into an Information System for better management. This study also identifies the potential of a town centre manager in administering the town centre to make it more viable and vital.