THE DIVERSE range of shops, the number of successful restaurants and the variety of independent stores are among the highlights of the retail scene in Helensburgh, according to a conference of local business owners.

But the shortage of parking spaces, the number of empty units and a failure to make best use of the seafront are all holding back the local economy.

The conference, held at the Victoria Halls last week, saw the owners around a dozen businesses join members of Helensburgh Community Council to discuss ways of improving the town's economic performance.

Asked what could be improved in the town, the business owners at the event said an end to parking fees, more variety in the local retail scene and trying to get all the local shops to keep the same opening hours were key to the town's future economic success.

Norman Muir, the convener of Helensburgh Community Council, which organised the event, said: “Let's shout about Helensburgh. Let's make sure people know we're here.

“Let's make sure they know they're welcome, they know where they can park, they know where the shops are and they know what they sell.”

Presentations were given on business rates, on the work of the Helensburgh and Lomond Chamber of Commerce, and on Business Gateway's presence in the area.

Ann Scott, Business Gateway's business adviser, highlighted the success of the World Host programme, which provides training for businesses in how to provide better customer service.

“The programme came to the UK in 2012, and Business Gateway and the Argyll and the Isles Tourism Co-operative are speaking to the World Host organisation about creating a programme for Argyll and Bute,” she said.

“If you, as a customer, get great service from a business, that's something you will remember and hopefully tell other people about.

“When people go to your business they should be getting a pleasurable experience – because if they don't get that, they won't come back.”

Ms Scott also spoke about the 'Digital Boost' workshops offered by the local Business Gateway team, providing workshops, guides and 'health checks' along with one-to-one support to businesses to increase their online presence.

Mr Muir added: “We've got to work as closely together as we can. The community council already works closely with the Chamber of Commerce.

“We're offering an invitation to all retailers to approach one or both of us if you have problems you want to see addressed."

HCC members invited 173 local businesses to attend the conference on October 11, but Mr Muir said he wasn't downhearted by the low turnout.

“Twelve people's brains are just as good as 173,” he added.

“We have to break the cycle of apathy that I think exists in some parts of the town, and utilise the elements of the town that matter to make life better.”