High Street (Improvement) Bill - Clause 1

Acknowledges the challenges faced by Bristol's high streets, noting that while some are thriving, others struggle. Asks about cost-effective tools councils can use to address empty shops and support high street revitalization.

Queries the definition of high street under the Bill, asking whether it applies specifically to streets or encompasses wider town centre areas. Also asks about challenges from online retail and potential benefits of bringing housing closer to high streets.

Urges flexibility in the definition of a high street, considering adjoining streets and neighbouring shopping centres. Suggests that concentrating efforts on a small area could risk displacement activity.

Expresses concern about conspiracy theories surrounding the concept of 15-minute cities, reiterating its importance in enabling local shopping and leisure activities without long travel distances.

Questions the public transport implications of improving high streets, highlighting the role of efficient bus services in connecting smaller towns to larger urban areas and supporting regeneration efforts.

Recognising the Bill's aim to revitalise high streets, Gavin Robinson expressed support for giving local authorities flexibility to designate more than one street as a high street area. He highlighted the challenges faced by Belfast’s city centre due to historical events like fires and social deprivation but noted successful regeneration efforts in his constituency through partnerships and community initiatives.

Supports the Bill to improve high streets. Argues that Cheshire East Council's recent car parking charges are detrimental and not reflective of local consultation outcomes, citing 8,127 objections out of 8,384 representations. Emphasises the need for councils to listen to local people in planning processes. Highlights potential negative impacts on small businesses and community spirit. Advocates for meaningful consultations that actually influence decisions.

Emphasises the importance of history, heritage and pride in regeneration. Advocates for creating signs or stories to inform people about their local history. Supports using funds like the community ownership fund to preserve cultural assets such as football grounds and theatres. Suggests that empty buildings should be converted into residential properties for housing and regeneration.

Suggests that high streets should be vibrant hubs but many face challenges due to changing consumer habits. Emphasises the importance of preserving community spaces, not just physical structures. Discusses specific issues in Crewe and Nantwich, highlighting the negative impact of a nearby retail park on local businesses. Supports efforts by councils to revitalise town centres through investment and regeneration projects, but warns against neglecting less successful areas. Advocates for the Bill's designation aspect to tailor interventions to unique community needs.

Mr Leigh supports the Bill, citing his home town of Gainsborough as an example. He explains how redevelopment efforts have brought new life to areas previously affected by industrial decline but notes concerns about out-of-centre shopping centres negatively impacting high streets. He calls for careful collaboration between central and local government to ensure that resources and power are not sucked away from smaller, vital councils.

Ms Twist supports the Bill, emphasising the need for partnership and local leadership in revitalizing high streets. She notes recent closures of shops across various regions and advocates for Labour’s vision to empower local authorities with more flexibility to drive economic growth. She also mentions specific examples from Bradford and Wolverhampton where councils have succeeded in transforming vacant units into commercial use.

The Minister emphasises that the Bill will require local authorities to designate at least one high street in their area and create plans to improve them, with a focus on economic, social, and cultural importance. He mentions existing Government initiatives such as the High Streets Taskforce, £2.5 million accelerator programme, and new powers for rental auctions. The Minister also highlights funding allocations like £13 billion through various levelling-up funds and the community ownership fund.

[INTERVENTION] Kieran Mullan asks how to ensure councils designate high streets that need support rather than those already thriving, expressing concern about potential avoidance of the necessary hard work.

[INTERVENTION] James Daly comments on defining what constitutes a high street and its benefits beyond just shops. He mentions heritage projects like Bolton Street in his constituency that can benefit from Government funds for regeneration.

[INTERVENTION] Edward Leigh seeks assurance that powers and resources given to the Mayor of Lincolnshire will not diminish support for local councils in West Lindsey District, which is crucial for high street improvements.

Argues that the Bill is about ensuring due consideration of certain matters in local plans, not stopping development. Highlights the importance of heritage and cultural assets for high street vibrancy and footfall. Expresses concern over proposed parking charges in Cheshire towns and out-of-town retail developments with free parking.