Bira CEO, Andrew Goodacre's latest comments
"Over the years millions of pounds has been made available to towns and cities to regenerate their town centres and high streets. The current levelling up programme also made funds available, based on devolving the decision making process down to local councils. We have always welcomed the initiatives to make high streets better. We have not however welcomed the lack of cohesive planning and lack of consultation with the local businesses when the plans are being developed. We have tried to influence this by working with the High Street Task Force but in the future we would like to see it made mandatory for local authorities to engage and involve local businesses with the development of regeneration plans.
"We also often have too many empty properties. We also know that there are entrepreneurs with new brands who want to establish a high street presence, but the cost of setting up and running shop is too expensive and too risky. This suggests that there should be opportunities for pop up shops in buildings that are empty. These could breathe new life into places, offering some variety for the shoppers."
About Property & Place
Property and place management in the UK involves the management and maintenance of properties and the surrounding areas to create attractive, safe, and well-functioning spaces. It encompasses various activities aimed at enhancing the value, appeal, and functionality of properties and their surrounding environments.
The goal of property and place management in the UK is to create attractive, well-maintained, and economically vibrant spaces that benefit property owners, businesses, residents, and visitors alike. It requires effective coordination, stakeholder engagement, and a proactive approach to address challenges, capitalise on opportunities, and create thriving environments.
Our position
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Engage in campaigns to raise awareness about the contribution of independent retail businesses
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Ensure that local authorities prioritise the needs and interests of small businesses in their planning and development strategies
Read more in the additional information section below.
What you can do
Support the High Street Task Force at highstreettaskforce.org.uk
Keep us informed by letting us know of any current issues, opinions or updates. Email membership@bira.co.uk.
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Key aspects
Property Management: Property management involves the administration and oversight of individual properties, including residential, commercial, and mixed-use buildings. Property managers are responsible for tasks such as rent collection, lease management, property maintenance, tenant relations, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations. Their goal is to maximise property value, optimise occupancy rates, and provide a positive experience for tenants.
Place Management: Place management focuses on the broader management and development of physical spaces, such as town centres, shopping districts, business parks, and public spaces. It involves collaboration between property owners, local authorities, businesses, community groups, and other stakeholders to create vibrant, well-maintained, and economically viable places. Place managers aim to enhance the attractiveness of the area, drive footfall and economic activity, and create a positive environment for residents, visitors, and businesses.
Maintenance and Upkeep: Property and place management involves regular maintenance and upkeep of buildings, infrastructure, and public spaces. This includes activities such as cleaning, landscaping, waste management, repairs, and infrastructure maintenance (e.g., lighting, signage, parking facilities). Well-maintained properties and public spaces contribute to a positive image, attract visitors and businesses, and promote a sense of pride and safety within the community.
Stakeholder Engagement: Effective property and place management require collaboration and engagement with various stakeholders. This includes property owners, tenants, local authorities, business associations, community groups, residents, and other relevant parties such as Bira. Engaging stakeholders helps to understand their needs, gather feedback, address concerns, and foster a sense of ownership and collective responsibility for the area's success.
Marketing and Promotion: Property and place management involves marketing and promotion efforts to attract businesses, residents, and visitors. This may include branding initiatives, marketing campaigns, events, festivals, and initiatives to showcase the area's unique features, amenities, and offerings. Effective marketing and promotion help to raise awareness, generate interest, and drive footfall and economic activity.
Collaboration with Local Authorities: Property and place management often involves close collaboration with local authorities, who play a crucial role in urban planning, licensing, regulatory compliance, and infrastructure development. Working together with local authorities helps to align management efforts with broader city or town objectives, access resources and support, and navigate regulatory requirements.
Additional information
The curation of a place plays a significant role in its success. Local authorities (LAs) are responsible for the development and planning of their areas, including high streets and town centres. It is crucial for LAs to consider the contribution of independent retail in creating a viable and thriving high street.
Diversity and balance are key factors in the success of a high street. While it is recognised that retail may not be the dominant feature anymore, a diverse range of shops and cultural activities enriches the overall experience and appeal of a place. Independent retailers bring unique products, personalised service, and a distinct character to the high street, making it more attractive to locals and visitors.
Bira is actively engaged in conversations and campaigns to raise awareness about the contribution of independent retail. As part of the High Streets Task Force, which collaborates with LAs to develop their towns and city centres, Bira advocates for the recognition and support of independent retailers. By highlighting the value and importance of independent retail, it helps ensure that local authorities prioritise the needs and interests of these businesses in their planning and development strategies.
Independent retail is often considered the heart of every good high street. Its presence creates a sense of community, offers unique and diverse shopping experiences, and contributes to the overall vibrancy and character of a place. Bira's efforts aim to ensure that the vital role played by independent retailers is acknowledged and that they are included in the plans and initiatives designed to revitalise and sustain high streets across the UK.