Cheltenham has been awarded ninth position as the best place for retail investment, beating 191 other UK towns and cities.

Research by Knight Frank identified 200 towns and cities outside London which were best for retail investment. Cheltenham met all key tests, including:

. Dominating the local catchment - people are attracted to come and shop here

. People wanting to live and work here - business are looking to relocate and invest here

. A diverse retail offer that is growing - this is supported by the introduction of retailers such as John Lewis on the High Street

. An extremely attractive environment - the size of the borough makes it very easy to access all great parks, events and festivals.

The report describes Cheltenham as being in the 'premier league' of retail centres - competing with the likes of Cambridge, Brighton and Bath. These strong performers are managing to deal with the challenges from Brexit and internet shopping. In these areas turnover volumes are holding and there has been limited change in tenant mix. Property experts Frank Knight suggest that this makes for a sound investment opportunity in these premier retail areas.

Cllr Steve Jordan, leader of Cheltenham Borough Council, said: "Cheltenham is really punching above its weight and this has been proven through the recognition that the town is one of the best places for retail investment. Our high street remains strong and has a prosperous future, with the much anticipated John Lewis opening to customers next year, the town is an ideal choice for new businesses and investors. We are also planning to deliver a programme of public realm improvements to this area of the High Street next year that will see new paving, seating, signage and planting to support bio-diversity, adding further momentum to the strength of our retail offer.''

Kevan Blackadder, director of Cheltenham Business Improvement District (BID), added: "There have been some concerns at recent closures of a small number of businesses in Cheltenham, but these have in the main been as part of national chain closures or relocations to better premises in the town centre.

"It's great to know that Cheltenham is seen as being in such a strong position to benefit from future retail investment. We always believed that the opening of John Lewis next year would help stimulate it and that does seem to be the case."

Meanwhile, Gloucester has been placed in 90th position, but Cllr Paul James, leader of Gloucester City Council, expects to see a big improvement next year.

He said: "The last year has seen some progress in the city's retail offer with the opening of TK Maxx in the city centre and a number of other independent businesses, plus new brands like Ted Baker, Jack Wills and Joules at Gloucester Quays. The sale of Kings Walk shopping centre brings with it the promise of major investment in the city centre, starting with works to get the former BHS store ready for occupation before moving on to improvements to the covered mall and car park. Next year will also see the opening of a flagship Next home and fashion store at the Peel Centre. I fully expect these investments to result in a significantly higher ranking for us next year."

What do you think? Is Cheltenham worthy of a place in the top 10? Can Gloucester improve its position in future? Email mark@moosemarketingandpr.co.uk