A new working group looking at issues and opportunities for Clacton town centre will meet for the first time later this month.

The partnership of cross-party district councillors, town centre businesses, local community groups and other stakeholders will explore options for improving the area, as the retail market changes nationally.

Residents, businesses and community groups will also be asked for their views through a questionnaire.

At last night’s full meeting of Tendring District Council (TDC), Zoe Fairley revealed the date of the first meeting, on September 21.

Those involved have already been invited to the meeting.

Cllr Fairley, Cabinet Member for Investment and Growth, said she was looking forward to working with partners to address the challenges Clacton town centre was facing.

“It is vital that we canvas Clacton residents, businesses and community groups, and a questionnaire will be made available in due course,” she said. “I would ask that as many people as possible take part, and I call on councillors to help share the questionnaire widely.”

Cllr Fairley also praised the cross-party support she had received in setting up the group.

Cllr Mick Skeels, Cabinet Member for Leisure and Tourism, will also sit on the group in recognition of the key role tourism plays in Clacton.