Great Malvern has much to be positive about, according to a report on the future of the town centre.

The report, Putting the Great back into Great Malvern, was compiled by Lee Robson, head of community and economic development at Malvern Hills District Council.

He says there is a good mix of retail businesses in Great Malvern and the sum of the parts is more than equal to any department store.

Far from being dominated by charity shops, as it is often perceived, the town centre has only seven in a total of 154 retail outlets, or five per cent. This is no more than the national average. There are the same number of vacant shop units.

The centre does have an unusual number of independent retailers - there are only six multiples.

This, says Mr Robson, is a good thing as independents are in charge of their own destiny and committed to providing for the needs of the customer.

He does highlight the opportunity for more speciality products closely connected with the Malvern Hills area, which could be marketed worldwide.

Rental levels are identified as a problem. The average rent per square foot in Great Malvern is £15.45. This compares to £14 in Ledbury and £12 in Leominster.

Despite its 11 estate agents and nine banks, Great Malvern town centre does have a good mix of retail outlets. Most popular are hairdressers (9), women's clothing (7), restaurants (7), gift/antiques (6), art/gallery (6) and book shops (5).

Mr Robson said the aim was for the future of the town centre to be discussed at a public meeting, probably in September.