Task force aims to revitalise high streets and town centres

The High Streets Task Force will be made up of experts who will provide tailored guidance and advice to local authorities looking to breathe new life into their local high streets and town centres.

The task force has been created in response to the recommendations of the High Streets Expert Panel, chaired by entrepreneur Sir John Timpson, which argues that successful change is created by local communities who have a vision for their high streets and town centres.

The group will be run by the Institute of Place Management (IPM), which has been awarded an £8.6m contract to put together a consortium of high street experts with a wide range of knowledge and insight, including in planning and design. As part of this offer, local authorities will also be able to access up-to-date behavioural data that will provide insights into consumer habits.

Over the summer, the task force will engage with key stakeholders and agree a project plan with government. Pilot delivery is due by September 2019 and will be fully operational by July 2020.

High streets minister, Jake Berry, said: “High streets and the way we use them are changing, and this government is committed to helping communities to adapt. We want to see vibrant town centres where people live, shop, use services and spend their leisure time.

“But in order to evolve successfully, high streets must meet the needs of their local community and the key to this is strong local leadership. This is why we are providing additional support through a High Streets Task Force, drawing on the best expert advice, training and data that’s available.”

The announcement comes during the second Great British High Street Week, a week of activity to celebrate high streets and share the work that government is undertaking to support them. The Great British High Street Awards are part of this work, and entries are due to close shortly.