MORE shops and more bobbies on the beat – that s what people want in Stevenage. These were the top two responses that came out of the Stevenage Town Centre Management Company s recent shopper survey that was featured in The Comet. Over 500 people took the

MORE shops and more bobbies on the beat - that's what people want in Stevenage.

These were the top two responses that came out of the Stevenage Town Centre Management Company's recent shopper survey that was featured in The Comet.

Over 500 people took the time and trouble to complete the survey and give their views on issues such as safety and security, cleanliness, car parking and the appearance of the town centre.

Some 92 per cent of the respondents went to Stevenage town centre to go shopping and a new and improved range of shops, with a need for a department store, was highlighted by a significant number of shoppers. An investment in CCTV cameras by Stevenage Borough Council, the work of the Retailers Against Crime initiative, and the presence of the town centre warden have all helped to make visitors feel safe and secure.

However, a large number of survey respondents wanted to see more police patrolling the town centre.

"We asked people to identify any single measure that would make them feel safer and more secure," said town centre manager Tracey Parry.

"Respondents were not given a suggested list but 66 per cent of those who answered this question identified a uniformed police presence as the single measure most likely to make them feel safer in the town centre."

The Stevenage Town Centre Management Company is committed to improving and developing the town centre, working in close partnership with the police, Stevenage Borough Council and the private sector.

"We welcome the views of the public," said Tracey, "and we will use the results of the survey to continue to work with our partners in improving Stevenage town centre."

A full copy of the survey results can be viewed on the website www.stevenage-town-centre.co.uk