Shops and Businesses - Contents

Do Your Shopping and Business in Ampthill | Where can I learn more about Business & Retail Development in Ampthill? |  What does the Ampthill Town plan say about Business & Retail Development?

Do Your Shopping and Business in Ampthill?

Ampthill is a "historic market town" that still serves as a commercial centre for surrounding villages. The town has a plethora lively pubs, a wide variety of restaurants (indeed you can sample quisine from all over the world), a Waitrose supermarket and a selection of small independent specialist shops. A number of small businesses such as solicitors, estate agents, financial services, hairdressers, and music schools are also located in town, with larger businesses to be found on the commercial and industrial developments on the outskirts, along the town's bypass. Part of Ampthill's enviable charm however, is that it has retained much of its 'olde worlde' feel, as the town boasts a traditional butchers, bakers, cobblers, chemist, antique shops and a bespoke tailor.

If you live in Ampthill or are considering visiting the town here are a few reasons for doing so in terms of the types of shops and businesses on offer:

• A Waitrose Supermarket 
• 7 Public Houses
• Restaurants - Indian, Chinese, Italian, Mexican & a number of Coffee Shops & Takeaways
• Antique Stores
• Clothing - designer, bridal & bespoke tailor
• Hairdressers/Beauty Treatments
• Gift Shops (including kitcheware)
• Carpet Shop
• Traditional Sweet Shop
• Post Office
• Newsagents
• Florists
• Musical Instrument Retailer
• Galleries/Picture Framer
• Estate Agents/Finacial Advisors
• Jeweller/Goldsmith's
• Chemists
• Furniture Retailers
• Butchers
• Bakers
• Cobblers
• Dry Cleaner
• Scooter Retailer
• Car Sales (Used & New)
• Tyre & Exhaust Fitters
• Interior Design Studios
• Kitchen Showroom
• Toy Shop 

This list provides a small insight into the why Ampthill remains a centre for commerce in Mid Beds, however in these economically difficult times the adage 'use it or lose it' remains relevant, as without your support businesses can flounder and that's to the detriment of us all.

Where can I learn more about Business & Retail Development in Ampthill?

A detailed listing of shops and businesses, can be found via the Ampthill & District Directory site.

What does the Ampthill Town plan say about Business & Retail Development? 

Ampthill is a very pleasant and attractive small market town but despite improvements over the years, the town centre has declined with businesses regularly failing. This has left the town looking run down with businesses finding it difficult to keep their premises looking their best. We believe that a few key changes will help Ampthill businesses move to expansion and regeneration.

THE ISSUES

• Reverse town centre deterioration
• More shopping choice
• A better supermarket
• Easier and more central parking
• Insufficient jobs in the town
• A new community centre with cinema/theatre facilities

ACTIONS

• Waitrose - ensure successful development
• Investigate development of the derelict area behind Kings Arms Yard
• Seek additional areas for car parking
• Consistent shop standards and a quality look & feel for the centre
• Business friendly development of The Limes (MBDC) buildings
• Further promotion & use of Ampthill Park
• A public garden in the town centre
• Encourage business park expansion
• Encourage an appropriate hotel style & location
• Encourage young people oriented businesses
• Promote Ampthill, its attractions and facilities

THE VISION FOR THE FUTURE

• A high quality, attractive centre which enhances the conservation area
• A good reputation as a centre for specialist shops - the place to find quality clothes, furniture, antiques, jewellery, accessories, food, delicatessen, toys , restaurants etc
• Prestige officed based businesses attractive to clients and staff
• An expanding business park with incentives for general businesses

POLICY STATEMENTS

• The town supports the regeneration of Ampthill as a thriving shopping
• centre in keeping with the character of the conservation area - including provision of the necessary infrastructure.
• The town supports the development of non retail businesses and jobs.

How can I influence 'the powers that be' with regards Business & Retail Development?

• Join Ampthill Chamber of Trade & Commerce