CURRENT policy is failing St Peter Port, it has been claimed.

Retail expert John Hollis (pictured), who lives in St Peter Port, said Town had significant disadvantages – such as parking and rents – but there were some advantages.

‘Attempting to compete by primarily attracting more UK multiples would be a crass mistake,’ he warned.

‘One or two may be desirable to plug holes in teenage fashion and other areas, but St Peter Port needs to compete by being different.

‘Independent retailers need to be encouraged, whereas too many current policies discourage them.’

Mr Hollis, who has 30 years experience of the sector and was in management consultancy for 15 years, suggested one part of the solution could be for Town to become more French in style with innovative boutiques.

‘With a degree of support, the efforts of some to achieve a vibrant Old Quarter could also finally come to fruition.

‘The creative effort going in from some traders deserves a positive result, with some great community events and exhibitions planned for 2010.’

An argument that UK visitors wanted stores familiar to them did not stack up, he said.

• Click here to read Mr Hollis’ comments in full (PDF document).