The increase in population and change in demographics of Haverhill are bringing the town to the attention of major national retailers, and a report commissioned on the town centre highlights opportunities for significant development. With further land available within the town centre, there is no barrier to further development, and the progress seen over the last two decades should continue unchecked.

Having reached this critical point, the retail sector is expanding to match the many and varying needs of the growing number and increasing affluence of the town’s inhabitants. With Boots, Dixons, Sainsburys, Woolworths, Peacocks, and Superdrug already having stores here, other household names can be expected to open in the future.

On the leisure front, J D Wetherspoon have made a major investment with the creation of ‘The Drabbet Smock’ pub, and a new night club has given the younger generation a place for partying to the early hours. Eating out has also been further enhanced with the arrival of a good quality Indian restaurant in the High Street, involving yet another large capital expenditure.

The twice-weekly market on the square and in the High Street is very active and encourages more shoppers into the town centre. This has seen great improvement over recent years, especially with CCTV coverage assisting security and enhancing the general wellbeing. Demand for retail premises continues to be buoyant, with the Borough and Town Councils constantly monitoring these requirements for the Strategic Development Plan.