Retailers hope for business boost with new name for Barnsley Arcade

The Arcade in Barnsley is set to undergo a name change as retailers work together to improve business on the street.

The decision to change the name of the shopping street known simply as the Arcade to the Victorian Arcade is being backed by Enterprising Barnsley, the business development arm of Barnsley Council.

The retail destination is currently home to 36 independent shops, including cafes, designer boutiques, jewellers, a record shop, bakers and barbers.

Built in Victorian times as a residential street called Guests Yard, the Arcade was eventually transformed into a shopping street and a roof was added.

Roger Foulstone, whose grandfather Tom established Tom Foulstone’s menswear shop in 1929, is very pleased with the plans.

Roger, who started working at the shop 42 years ago with his father Peter, said: “This is the first time since I have been here that something looks like it is actually going to happen. Up until now it has been the forgotten street in Barnsley, which is a real shame as it has such character.

“Everybody is pulling together now to get something done and everyone feels positive about it. And with the backing of the council it really feels like something will happen.”

As part of the marketing campaign, which is being supported by Barnsley Business and Innovation Centre (BBIC), through Enterprising Barnsley, local experts will work with the traders for the next five months to improve the appearance and awareness of the arcade.

The work has been initiated as part of The Town Centre Plan, to understand the sort of business support the small independent businesses need to improve their trading prospects.

Plans include a series of events, including a vintage fair in December, new leaflets, signage and the re-brand. The retailers will also receive coaching in social media and event planning. This will be followed with the traders setting up a co-operative with a budget to pay for their own marketing.

Kevin Steel, Enterprising Barnsley’s business development manager at BBIC, said: “It really is a special place and could be the jewel in the crown of the town centre. And the new name will celebrate the heritage of the arcade.

“What we are doing is simply going in there to kick-start the improvements. We are asking the retailers what they want and then helping them to get started. It is a great example of the public sector helping the private sector.”

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