BITC responds to the Government’s high-street announcement 

Today, the Prime Minister announced proposals intended to give local authorities and communities greater influence over high streets in England. These include proposed planning controls for new vape shops and adult gaming centres, alongside stronger powers to close premises associated with serious nuisance, disorder or criminal behaviour. Some measures will be subject to consultation before taking effect. 

Across our network, small and medium-sized businesses consistently tell us that the strength of their local high street is critical to their ability to trade, recruit and grow. We know from our work with communities that high streets are also vital civic spaces, shaping local pride, connection and opportunity. We see a strong appetite among businesses to contribute more where there is a clear local ambition and a practical route to work collectively. The forthcoming High Streets Strategy is an opportunity to create that route and engage business early in shaping local economic renewal and wider social transformation. 

Commenting on the announcement, Ndidi Okezie OBE, Chief Executive of Business in the Community, said: 

Giving councils and communities greater influence over their high streets is a welcome step. Businesses should be at the table early as strategic partners in shaping and delivering a shared vision for place. Their contribution includes jobs, procurement, property, investment and influence, strengthened by the place knowledge, trusted relationships and long-term commitment of locally rooted SMEs. Mobilising these capabilities collectively around local priorities can create more places where people, communities and businesses thrive over the long term. BITC stands ready to help mobilise that contribution as the Government develops its wider High Streets Strategy. 

ENDS

Notes to editor

For further information, please contact Polly Dacam, Senior Public Affairs and Media Officer, on 020 7566 6638.

About Business in the Community

Business in the Community (BITC) champions responsible business as essential for long term economic growth and resilience.   
 
It is the UK’s leading responsible business network, working with companies of all sizes to tackle society’s most pressing challenges from climate change and place-based community regeneration to inequality, workplace wellbeing, and inclusive growth.  
  
Founded by His Majesty King Charles III in 1982, BITC has over four decades of experience in engaging business and delivering measurable impact in both business and in communities through evidence-based interventions. 

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