By David LennardA TOWN renowned as one of the finest seaside locations in the country is also fast earning a reputation for its wide range of shops and businesses.

By David Lennard

A TOWN renowned as one of the finest seaside locations in the country is also fast earning a reputation for its wide range of shops and businesses.

Every summer Southwold attracts thousands of visitors and at busy periods the only real problem is trying to find enough car parking spaces to cope with the demand.

But the town is now becoming a popular destination all year round and Southwold's many shops and businesses are eager to adapt to the new demand.

New businesses have been opening in the resort and established shops, pubs and hotels are being refurbished.

Dudley Clarke, who has been connected with Southwold for many years and represents many of the town's businesses, said: “There is a growing confidence within the business community that Southwold will continue to be a major attraction, both as a holiday destination and for visitors spending a day in the town.

“Visitors will be able to enjoy the many quality shops and the increasing number of restaurants and tea rooms, not forgetting the excellent pubs.”

Among the premises being refurbished are The Amber Shop and Museum, on the town's Market Place, where visitors will soon be able to enjoy new displays as part of a major refit.

Denny of Southwold has closed its doors for a week to carry out major work on the sales floors and completely re-merchandise the shop, while Collen and Clare, the boutique department store, opens in new larger premises in the town centre on Saturday.

New businesses that have opened in the town include Black Olive, a delicatessen in High Street, whose owner, Sarah Honeywood, said: “We have been impressed by just how busy Southwold is.

“Visitors from both near and far come to Southwold and there is no doubt it should be considered a shopping town as well as a seaside town.”

Other businesses where improvement work has been carried out include specialist boutique Tulip and the florist and green grocer Market Garden.

The hospitality industry in Southwold has also not missed out on the town's growing popularity with many premises being extended and improved.

New owners at the Blue Lighthouse Brasserie are currently carrying out further improvements, while brewers Adnams carried out a complete redesign of the popular Sole Bay Inn that stands in the shadows of the town's famous lighthouse.

Another Southwold landmark currently being given a facelift is the Swan Hotel that will be looking its best for the coming season.

david.lennard@eadt.co.uk