AGP Executive Report
Last update: 4 hours agoRetail & Crime: Dorset is ranked among England’s worst business crime hotspots, with 7,080 crimes against businesses recorded in 2025 and shoplifting a major driver; meanwhile Barking and Dagenham police say a retail crime tech platform is boosting outcomes for repeat offenders by speeding up intelligence-sharing with retailers. Local High Streets: Otley is highlighted as a rare success story, with independent shops making up about 75% of the town’s high street and a low vacancy rate around 8%. Planning & Housing Pressure: Residents near South Ockendon’s Buckles Lane traveller site fear new planning rules could make it harder to tackle unauthorised encampments, citing sewage and fire risks; in Solihull, councillors warn “default yes” housing changes near stations could ramp up pressure on green belt land. Transport for SMEs & Footfall: Newbury is rolling out extra weekend and evening bus services to improve access to shops and jobs. Business Support & Skills: A new Highlands and Islands digital and technology entrepreneurship programme backs about 100 entrepreneurs with mentoring and grants. SME Growth Stories: Dragons’ Den star Sara Davies is taking a board seat and equity stake in Not On The High Street’s turnaround push, betting on consumer demand to buy local.
Note: AI summary from news headlines; neutral sources weighted more to help reduce bias in the result. Feedback is welcome. Please let us know if you have any comments or suggestions about the AGP Executive Report.
Perspectify News
