28 November 2024
Bira has welcomed a major new report from the House of Lords that calls for empowered local leadership and simplified funding to help revive Britain's high streets.
The Built Environment Committee's report, "High Streets: Life beyond retail?", published today (November 28), sets out how high streets can be regenerated and become more resilient, emphasising that retail will remain vital but must be part of a broader mix including leisure, services and community spaces.
The committee found that local authorities often lack adequate resources and skills to support high streets, recommending investment in training town centre managers and highlighting the need for greater coordination between Government departments.
Commenting on the report, Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, said: "This report has identified some of the key elements to a successful high street, whilst recognising that each place needs to find its identity and solution to create a vibrant high street.
"For some time Bira has been saying that retail is no longer the dominant feature of high streets, with consumers looking for more services and leisure opportunities. We also agree with the conclusion that high streets need diversity and adaptability, - characteristics often delivered by independent retailers and independent business in general.
"It is also good to see recognition of the need for good accessibility by investing in infrastructure where possible and highlighting the importance of good car parking.
"Finally, we absolutely support the idea of local business leaders and local communities being involved with future plans to regenerate a place. Funding can also then be devolved to a local level, supporting coherent plans. Independent retailer care about their high street and the their communities, and all too often their voice can be ignored."
The report urges the Government to provide local authorities with more targeted support and calls for a radical simplification of the current funding landscape, which it describes as "patchy and uncoordinated." It also emphasises the importance of providing resource funding alongside capital investment to ensure sustainable regeneration.
Bira's advocacy takes your voice to the heart of Parliament
Bira is at the forefront of championing the cause of independent traders and shopkeepers across Britain.
Our campaigns cover a wide spectrum of issues crucial to the success of independent traders including:
- Combatting the rising tide of retail crime
- Advocating for changes in legislation that promote fairness and flexibility
- Fighting for fairer business rates
- Overall reducing the regulatory burden
- £1 billion damages claim against Amazon by UK retailers
Latest News
-
Independent retailers mingle with top suppliers for 'Mica Exchange' in Peebles, Scotland
Mica held its annual ‘Mica Exchange’ gathering over the weekend of 16th - 17th September at the picturesque Peebles Hydro Hotel & Spa in the Scottish Borders. The Exchange is an invitation-only event taking place in a different part of the UK each year that brings together Mica's...
-
Dexam launches new ranges in partnership with the RHS
Following the success of their existing collections, Dexam have launched two new ranges in partnership with the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS). The Birds and Gertrude Jekyll textile ranges are now in stock and are made from organic cotton.
-
Bira CEO comments on the rise of shoplifting in UK stores & the effect on indie retailers
Shoplifters in the UK are becoming increasingly "emboldened" and appear to be operating under more organised and coordinated efforts, often orchestrated by organised criminal groups. These groups steal to order, fuelling a growing black-market trade in various goods, from cheese and meat to luxury items. Retail experts have expressed concern over the rise of these "grab-and-go" raids and their impact on businesses.
-
Understanding the UK Plastic Packaging Tax: Registration, Returns, and Payments
The Plastic Packaging Tax (PPT), implemented on April 1, 2022, marked a significant step towards reducing the environmental impact of plastic packaging in the United Kingdom. For businesses engaged in the manufacture or import of 10 tonnes or more of plastic packaging over a 12-month period, it is crucial to grasp the registration, return, and payment obligations associated with this tax. Even if your packaging comprises 30% or more recycled plastic, registration for PPT is mandatory and can be conveniently completed on the GOV.UK platform.