Doncaster Chamber of Commerce is calling for immediate action on city centre safety and events, even as the council pursues a long-term vision for the area.
Dan Fell, chief executive of the Chamber, said he felt unsafe walking through the city centre in the evening, despite describing himself as a "middle-aged, relatively fit guy".
City of Doncaster Council has unveiled a masterplan for city centre development up to 2025, which includes top-grade offices and canal-side apartments. But Fell wants to see quicker changes now.
Safety and events needed urgently
Fell identified persistent anti-social behaviour as a key issue. "I know it's hard, I know it's complex and I know there has been real effort from the council and the police to tackle it but we can go further and faster," he said.
He argued that creating events and activities to give people reasons to visit the city centre could be more effective than policing alone. "That can be really impactful, generates habits and behaviours and buys a bit of time while the capital investment catches up," Fell said.
Council consultation shaped masterplan
More than 8,000 residents completed a council consultation during summer 2024. Key issues included safety, cleanliness, empty shops and the overall appearance of the city centre. Residents also said they wanted "a more welcoming feel" when bringing families to the area.
A public space protection order, which gives the council and police extra powers to tackle anti-social behaviour, was recently renewed. Council officers have enforced against 1,333 breaches of the order since November 2023.
Call for realism on delivery
Fell said he supported the masterplan's ambition but warned against over-promising. He pointed to previous developments including the civic and cultural quarter, the Corn Exchange revamp and the Wool Market.
"If you walk around the city centre, it doesn't feel yet like that vibrant, bustling place," Fell said. "We have to be realistic about where we're starting from if we're going to have a credible plan for the future."