PEOPLE who don't regularly shop in Tavistock are being asked why as part of a project aimed at finding out how well the town is doing.

It is the latest phase of a scheme by West Devon Borough Council to 'benchmark' Tavistock to see how it compares with other market towns in Devon and further afield.

People are being asked to complete a survey about their shopping habits to help explain why they choose Tavistock or why they shop in a different town.

The survey, which takes just five minutes to complete, also asks what changes they would like to see made to Tavistock town centre.

Cllr Robert Oxborough, the borough council's community services chair, said: 'It can be hard to understand why people shop where they do. This survey aims to provide this important information so that we are able to make properly informed decisions in the future.

'The views of shoppers are central to getting this right and we would be very grateful if people could take the time to complete the survey.

'Ultimately, this could benefit the shoppers who take part as it will help us to improve the customer experience in future.'  

People can take part in the shoppers' survey by visiting: http://www.westdevon.gov.uk">www.westdevon.gov.uk

The borough is also asking retailers and businesses in Tavistock to complete a business confidence survey which includes questions about footfall, vacant units and car park usage – among others things.

The information will be sent to 'Towns Alive' which is gathering the same data from more than 100 towns across the UK and helping them develop ways to improve.

The findings are due to be published next spring.

Tavistock Town Team, the borough council and Tavistock BID Company have provided funds for the project.

For further details contact Robert Plumb, the council's economic development officer on 01822 813620 or [email protected]">[email protected]