A new Spalding town centre manager has been recruited to shape the future of the town and help unite businesses.
Ex-Army major Dennis Hannant has recently completed a 43-year career in the service and brings many years of military and commercial business experience to the role, which he starts in November.
Dennis says he understands the challenges facing Spalding town centre, and is looking forward to working with the town management team and market traders to encourage more footfall into the town.
He said: “Spalding has many excellent tourist attractions, and a visit to one of these coupled with a trip into Spalding makes for a great day out. I have no doubt that the job will be challenging, but there is so much potential in Spalding, and this is what really attracted me to the job.”
In previous roles Dennis has worked as a food and drink development manager for Forte Welcome Break as part of the Army’s long civilian catering course. He was also the catering officer with British Forces Hong Kong, and was part of the team responsible for the draw-down from the Colony and subsequent handover to China in 1997.
Phil Scarlett, president of the Spalding and District Area Chamber of Commerce and part of the selection panel, said: “From the beginning Dennis demonstrated a good understanding of the town and the challenges we face. He showed a determination and enthusiasm to deliver events and activities that will invigorate the town centre.
“His military background will provide essential planning and organisational skills for what is going to be a demanding and challenging role.”
Coun Howard Johnson, South Holland District Council portfolio holder for property and assets, community and member services, said: “The council has helped fund this post through the Springfields s106 Spalding Marketing ‘pot’ and we are delighted that Dennis will be bringing his skills and enthusiasm to the role of Spalding Town Centre Manager.
“Council members and officers will continue to work with Lincolnshire Chamber’s Spalding & District Area Chamber Council and the local Town Centre Management Board to support the new post and ensure that Spalding remains a vibrant centre for retailers, residents and visitors.”
Simon Beardsley, chief executive of Lincolnshire Chamber, added: “This project has taken a great deal of effort over a number of months to come to fruition, and to all those involved.
“I am extremely grateful. It illustrates exactly the role of a Chamber of Commerce in bringing together partners and funders to deliver a project that was originally conceived and developed by local members.”
