- There was a huge number of comments about the need to improve the appearance of shopfronts, with better quality designs of shopfronts and signage.
- There was a difference in opinion with some people preferring traditional designs and others preferring emphasis on quality rather than traditional.
- Some people felt that there were too many unattractive signs, both on shopfronts and on pavements.
- There was a general feeling that whilst roller shutters were not attractive, they were necessary to protect the shops.
- Some people wanted awnings and canopies to return.
- Many people wanted requirements to improve the condition of empty shops, and property in general.
- Some people wanted to see temporary uses for empty shops should be found.
- There was a wide variety of suggestions for new businesses needed. Many people wanted a new supermarket, a skatepark, leisure facilities such as a cinema, a bank, independent shops.
- More street cleaning and litter collection was a common theme.
- In addition, many people felt that street clutter should be reduced, and pavement improvements should carry on down Birkenhead Road. However many people felt that cobbles were not suitable for pavements.
- Much praise was given to Hoylake and Meols in Bloom for the floral displays, as well as Incredible Edible Hoylake. In general many people wanted to see more greenery.
- With the high street being so linear, many people wanted to see more of a focal point for meeting and seating.
- Many people felt that more car parking is required, and public toilets.
- Some people wanted to see better street decorations with more noticeboards, flags, and better Christmas decorations.
In general terms, the success of the high street raises so many issues – availability of car parking, appearance of shopfronts, street cleaning etc. The cumulative impact of all of these issues can have a huge impact of the success of the high street, and similarly the cumulative impact of single decisions can have a far greater impact in the long term. For example, a single poor quality shopfront or roller shutter might not have a significant impact, but a long sequence of poor shopfronts or roller shutters badly affects the appearance of the street. It is clear that one single action will not solve all issues, and only a diverse range of measures will work together to provide a comprehensive solution. Further exploration of high street issues is required, such as the various options for roller shutters, and how to promote car parking provision.
