Supporting Local Growth 2025-04-07
2025-04-07
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Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
Local high streets, such as those in Hertford and Stortford, are crucial for community vitality and economic growth. There is already work being done on high street rental auction powers to address vacant shops.
Local high streets like those in Hertford and Stortford are the heart of our communities and drive economic growth. I welcome the Government's efforts with local authorities on high street rental auctions to revitalise high streets by ensuring occupied shops. Will the Minister provide more details on how this initiative will boost occupancy rates and promote growth specifically for Hertford and Stortford?
High street rental auctions are a powerful tool to address persistent vacancies on local high streets, including those in Hertford and Stortford. We have already seen trailblazers moving forward quickly with these auctions. The powers and additional resources provided by the government are available for all councils to designate town centres and start their own auctions.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific details on occupancy rates were not given
We Have Trailblazers Moving Forward Quickly With These Auctions
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Lancashire County Council and Fylde Borough Council have committed additional funds to the St Annes pier link project. This is a critical step towards developing the Island site in St Annes.
The recent commitment by Lancashire county council and Fylde borough council to fund the St Annes pier link project, including development at the Island site, marks an important milestone for growth in St Annes. What specific funds or grants are available from the Government that can further catalyse this kind of local economic development initiative?
We are shifting how local growth is funded in this country to better match what communities need rather than imposing criteria set by Ministers. Our funding plans, which will be revealed at the spending review, aim to provide long-term support aligned with community-driven priorities.
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Assessment & feedback
No specific details on available funds or grants were provided
Changing Subject To Discuss New Approach
Response accuracy