High Streets (Improvement) Bill - Third Reading

Agrees with Jack Brereton’s speech, emphasising the importance of history and heritage in town centres. Uses Basingstoke as an example to illustrate how local history can distinguish a high street from others.

Supports the Bill, highlighting its potential to empower local people by allowing them to hold their councils accountable for high street management and economic growth. Emphasises the democratic process in ensuring effective local leadership.

Ms Glindon supports the amendment, highlighting North Shields' success in revitalizing its high street with £13 million of funding. She emphasises the importance of community engagement and sustainable development initiatives such as public toilets and a transport hub. The example shows that when communities come together to discuss their needs, tangible results can be achieved, making town centres vibrant again.

High streets are essential social hubs, but they face decline due to factors like online shopping and energy costs. Mr Henry cited examples of local businesses adapting during the pandemic and benefiting from government grants. He highlighted the importance of physical banking services and noted that Stapleford received £21.1 million as part of a town deal, which has helped renovate independent shops and attract new businesses. The MP emphasised the role of high streets in providing social interaction to combat loneliness and stressed the need for local authorities to address parking issues to support business growth.

Supports the Bill as it recognises high streets' importance, focusing on economic data for Oxford Street. Emphasised need for tax-free shopping to boost spending from international visitors. Raised concerns about empty shops, especially candy stores and vape shops, urging Westminster City Council to address them. Acknowledged role of business improvement districts (BIDs) in revitalising high streets. Cited examples like Elizabeth Street and Marylebone High Street showing local importance beyond central London.

[INTERVENTION] Agreed that building houses on land near high streets is important for footfall, supporting the idea of residential integration to boost local areas.

Miller supports the Bill, emphasising that it will encourage local authorities to develop plans for high street improvement. She notes the economic benefits of town centres and their role in civic pride and social cohesion. She also highlights the need for local authorities to consider consumer behaviour when developing strategies. Miller shares her constituency's Town Centre Strategy, which has been approved by public engagement and aims to attract footfall based on changing needs.

Supports the Bill, highlighting the importance of community pride and the need for local authorities to take a proactive role in revitalising town centres. Cites studies showing that high streets are valued but perceived as neglected by over two-thirds of people. Discusses challenges such as shop closures, reduced footfall, and the impact of online shopping. Emphasises the lack of success from previous Government schemes like the future high streets fund. Proposes a duty on local authorities to designate their high streets and create improvement plans, with regular reviews to adapt to changing retail environments.

Supports the Bill as part of a broader strategy to help regenerate and level up high streets. Highlights funding initiatives, such as £1.5 billion long-term plan for towns and the £15 billion levelling-up fund since 2019. Emphasises flexibility in local authorities' approach to designations and improvement plans, including regular reviews every five years.

Expressed gratitude to colleagues and the Minister for their support. Highlighted the positive impact of funding on his constituency, particularly new lifts at Longton station through the transforming cities fund. Acknowledged contributions from hon. Members such as Mary Glindon, Darren Henry, Nickie Aiken, and Dame Maria Miller. Hopes that the Bill will pass in the other place soon.