THE Teignmouth traders boss has issued a ringing endorsement of the departed town centre development manager, writes John Ware.

Tracy Scranage resigned after behind the scenes wrangles about her role, and now the chairman of the Teignmouth Traders’ Association, Keith Underhill, has told town councillors that the resort still needs somebody to sell it.

Speaking at a council meeting on Tuesday, and emphasising they were his personal views, he stressed he did not want to go into the rights and wrongs of the resignation, and would leave it to councillors to investigate the facts of ‘this sorry situation’.

Over two weeks he had visited the majority of businesses to collect a parking survey, and many members were baffled at what was going on because they believed she was doing a good job.

‘They have read the headlines and letters in the Post, but really have no idea of the background. But many of them believe the town has benefited from the work done by her, and was a more vibrant place. They knew her personally and gave them advice and support.

‘They felt they had a champion in Tracy who would at least attempt to put pressure on the council or other agencies, to clean up the town. It is now up to others to apply the pressure.

‘Many businesses only found out what was going on from the local newspaper or social media. Perhaps the council should review their communications. Many traders believed councillors should put the good of the town first, ahead of personal relationships, egos and party politics.

‘The majority of traders believe the town centre development manager has been a major asset over the last three years, in spite of adverse conditions beyond her control. The role should be retained, not just for their benefit, but to grow the town in general.’

Mr Underhill continued that trading had not been good for many businesses over the last year, and although traders were putting on a brave face, a lot were living ‘from hand to mouth’.

Their other concerns included parking, the lack of toilets, little progress on the Brunswick Street redevelopment, bus route changes, a lack of accommodation, eyesore buildings, fewer locals shopping in-town, and a perceived increase in rough sleepers.