The House of Lords has kicked off an inquiry into the regeneration of British high streets following mounting pressure from retail leaders to review the state of local town centres.
The investigation is looking into how high streets can be regenerated and “become more resilient and attractive”.
The built environment committee said it will consider the different uses by various communities and businesses and what is essential for them to flourish economically and socially.
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Chair Lord Moylan said: “High streets, which many people consider as a hub for their communities, face numerous challenges. Our inquiry will explore how high streets can be regenerated and become more resilient and attractive.”
John Lewis boss Sharon White has been one of the sector’s biggest voices in campaigning for a governmental review.
Last year, she branded UK high streets as “looting grounds” for criminal gangs and claimed the rise in shoplifting and antisocial behaviour, encouraged by years of shop closures, was destroying local high streets.
M&S boss Stuart Machin and Currys CEO Alex Baldock have both blamed “unjustifiable” business rates for the deterioration of town centres.
Machin described the rates as “daylight robbery” and said it was “why high streets and city centres are increasingly full of vacancies and dodgy shops”.
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1 Comment. Leave new
I do hope this review creates actions for investment and progress. We’ve had many reviews but they go nowhere – too much talk without outcomes. The need for rates reform is understood, but it’s a political dilemma and in the ‘too difficult to fix’ pile. Retail crime is surely easier to establish legislation to assist/protect. High Street regeneration needs investment – let’s hope a new review gives hope.