Parker unveils £10m fund to tackle high street decline

Seven West Midlands councils could receive a share of a £10m fund designed to tackle ‘hollowed out high streets’.

West Mids Mayor, Richard Parker, says the new cash will be used to bring boarded up shops back into use, and support traditional businesses struggling to compete with online retailers.

Specific locations targeted are yet to be announced – but the combined authority says it is now working on the scheme in partnership with the West Midlands Growth Company and councils in Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall, and Wolverhampton.

The announcement comes after Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, launched a government crackdown on vape shops, mini marts and gambling outlets, described as “rogue operators” which have “replaced the shops, services, and community spaces that people are crying out for”.

Burnham has proposed tighter planning laws, giving councils in England the power to refuse permission for businesses such as vape stores and gambling shops.

Statistics produced by the National Crime Agency estimate that more than £1bn of illegal money is laundered through high street stores in the UK each year.

“It’s been a bruising few years for our high streets and sadly, many have become tired and run down,” said Parker.

“Today’s announcement by the Prime Minister finally gives councils the power to say no to the vape shops and betting shops that have taken over too many town centres. That’s a step forward. But taking back control of the high street is only half the job. We also need the investment to fill it with something better.

“That’s what this £10m is for. It will bring boarded-up shops back into use, get new market stalls and street food venues onto our high streets, and back the businesses that give people a reason to visit, not just pass through.

“I want high streets that are clean, safe and bursting with life from morning to night. Government is giving councils the powers to clean them up. We’re giving them the investment to build something better in their place.”

The Mayor added that the High Streets and Growth Incubator would be used to attract more shoppers and visitors by improving tired public spaces, hosting more special events, and setting up new market stalls and street food venues.

A full list of locations for the scheme will be announced in due course.