There have been no announced business closures in Westbridge, and no official figures have so far established a clear overall trend in business activity.
However, recent observations of businesses across the borough suggest that activity levels may be changing.
Some of the larger businesses have continued to show regular activity, while others have experienced changes in the level of activity observed.
The retail sector appears to have experienced lower levels of activity in some areas, while businesses in the transport and hospitality sectors have continued to show activity.
The Dean Heathcote Company, which operates Deans Inn, has seen increased activity at the venue compared with some other businesses, including Besco, where activity has reportedly decreased.
These developments indicate that business activity in Westbridge may be changing, although it is not currently clear whether this represents a wider decline in the local business sector.
Further changes could occur following the release of Northminister and the introduction of more advanced systems intended for use by businesses and workers.
The potential effect of these developments on business activity remains unclear.
At present, the available observations do not establish whether Westbridge’s business sector is in decline, and further evidence would be required to determine whether a longer-term trend is emerging.