A TOWN centre regeneration plan is being discussed in a bid to boost business in Tiverton, Crediton and Cullompton.

Measures under consideration include a marketing campaign to improve the image of Tiverton Pannier Market and Crediton Town Square.

The initiative is just one of a series of ideas for the economic regeneration of the district in a report presented to councillors.

Other medium-term objectives include stimulating new business development, attracting inward investment into Mid Devon, and ensuring the local workforce has the skills demanded by employers.

And longer term options could include a town centre manager for the district, and a promotion and branding exercise to develop the district as an area for business growth.

Cllr Richard Chesterton, portfolio holder with responsibility for planning and regeneration, also identified the need for more dedicated business information and advice for the rural sector.

Five parishes in Mid Devon (those in the Blackdown Hills) are able to call on the business support and training support offered by AgriBIP West Devon.

Cllr Chesterton says the organisation provides valuable support and business development services.

Cllr Chesterton said the council could tidy up areas of the three towns in the new year, and offer traders' groups possible support funding to part-match promotional and marketing initiatives.

Last Thursday's executive meeting heard LABGI (Local Authorities Business Growth Initiative) funds could be used to bring forward the projects.

Money from the same source was earmarked for a survey of the traders in each of the three main towns to find out what they thought needed to be done to improve town centres' vitality and viability.

Cllr Kevin Wilson, who represents a Tiverton ward, was concerned the report was too 'Tiverton-centric'.

He said: "I hope the council has not forgotten Cullompton and Crediton. All three major towns have been hit equally by the recession."

Cllr Chesterton told the councillor that the aim of the report was not to favour one area over another in the district.

Leader of the council Cllr Peter Hare-Scott said: "Economic regeneration is very much needed in Mid Devon."