A CAMPAIGN has begun to entice developers to invest in Malvern.

Malvern Hills District Council says tackling the problem of empty shops in the town is one of the key points in its business plan for the coming year.

"The number of empty shops in Great Malvern has increased in the past year," said Sharon Gray, the head of economic development and tourism.

"There's no doubt that the growth of the Enigma retail park near Safeway has had an impact.

"But the last unit - occupied by Matalan - has now been occupied, so this is a good time to be talking about how we can entice people into the town centre."

Mrs Gray admitted the council, which has drawn up a portfolio of charity shops on short leases as well as empty premises, could offer few incentives to businesses.

MHDC would not be able to award rates concessions in an attempt to rectify the situation, she added.

"We need to research which people have made inquiries about vacant property and follow this up to learn why they haven't taken it up," said Mrs Gray.

"We must also set up meetings with estate agents before launching a joint marketing campaign."

One hundred members of the council's economic forum will scrutinise the business plan.

To curb costs, MHDC is encouraging members not to ask for hard copies but to view the document on-line.

Other features of the plan include promoting the multi-media capacity of the Malvern Hills science park.

Links with universities in the West Midlands could be supplied, to forge a "regional technology exchange" for businesses honing their research and development skills to exploit.

Tenbury Wells' Pump Rooms are also to be rejuvenated as a tourist attraction. Work to fit out the interior should be completed by September if all goes well.

Another tourist-related venture is the possibility of a water gallery at Witley Court.