The summary analysis of the Town's Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats focuses on the four 'A's: Access, Amenities Attractions and Action.

ACCESS

• Strengths include good parking for shoppers at North Beach, four main road arteries, free parking, public transport access close to the Town centre and dedicated parking for the disabled, cyclists and motorcyclists.
• Weaknesses include excessive traffic, conflicts between vehicular and pedestrian traffic movements, poor perception of public transport, deficiencies in parking provision, lack of unlimited parking time, pressure on parking by commuters, high transport cost for goods, vulnerability of deliveries due to weather conditions, lack of pedestrian signing, difficulties for disabled access and the effects of roadworks.
• Opportunities There is potential for the provision of additional parking spaces. The introduction of parking charges for some parking areas could provide a traffic management tool.

AMENITIES

• Strengths include the picturesque setting of the Town, the relatively unspoilt nature of the Town centre, its distinctive character and heritage, a lively atmosphere, the relatively compact shopping area, the proximity of the harbour, the mix of retail, businesses and residents, cleanliness, and the relatively low crime rate and a general feeling of security.
• Weaknesses include some rather jaded and run-down areas, a mix of street furniture styles and quality, a lack of attention to street furniture, a limited retail choice, building sites and roadworks and a poor acceptance of foreign currencies.
• Opportunities include the need to replace some street furniture, the potential for re-development of residences, an improvement in the quality of customer care, and the creation of a special identity by building on the Town's strengths.
• Threats include Sunday trading, which may, however also be regarded as an opportunity.

ATTRACTIONS

• Strengths. The Town's strengths are legion: there are lots of things to do; it has a good mix of shopping and eating places; much of the Town centre is pedestrianised or part-pedestrianised; there is no VAT and low impots; it is a centre for nightlife and activities on special occasions; it has a wealth of tourist attractions; and it has an interesting mix of British and French character.
• Opportunities. The new developments, including retail, businesses, parking and residences, in and around the Town provide considerable opportunities. There is also potential for enhancement of the waterfront and Albert Pier, and for tourism initiatives.
• Threats are posed by e-commerce and mail-order retailing, out-of-town developments, competing retail centres (both within and outside the Island) and the prevalence of national stores with their own identity.

ACTION

• Strengths. The Island has the ability to manage its own affairs. There is an active town traders association, a strong community spirit and a generally successful economy.
• Weaknesses. There is a problem recruiting and retaining suitably qualified staff. High rents, vacant shops and residences and poor use of peripheral shopping areas are perceived as weaknesses. There is a lack of clear leadership and centralised authority. The States department organisational structure and communications are poor and there is no focal point for issues affecting Town. As a result there is a lack of co-ordination in facilities provision.
• Opportunities. There is considerable support for the Town Centre Partnership initiative. There are also welcome tourism initiatives relating to the Town, and a willingness on behalf of States departments and other organisations to consider improvements and enhancements.