David Cameron and Nick Clegg have today called on retail guru Mary Portas to identify what government, local authorities and businesses can do to promote the development of more prosperous and diverse high streets.
“The high street should be at the very heart of every community, bringing people together, providing essential services and creating jobs and investment; so it is vital that we do all that we can to ensure they thrive,” comments Cameron. The PM says he’s “confident” that Mary Portas’s straight-talking, no-nonsense approach will help to “bring back the bustle” to UK high streets. “Empty high streets are a blight on the local economy,” adds Deputy PM Nick Clegg. “Vacant shops are also a wasted opportunity with far-reaching consequences. When goods and services start to disappear, our sense of community can be weakened and undermined. It is vital therefore that we examine what steps can be taken to revitalise and reinvigorate high-street shopping centres across the country.” Mary Portas’ report will: * Address the problem of vacant shops * Adopt new business models for the high street that fit the needs of the modern shopper * Prevent the proliferation of “clone towns” * Increase the number of small and independent retailers doing business in local town centres Mary Portas will present the review to Cameron, Clegg and Edward Davey (Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for BIS) by autumn 2011. We’ll keep you posted.
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.