On 14 January, business representatives, political stakeholders and levy payers got together at the House of Commons to celebrate the launch of High Streets UK. 

High Streets UK is backed by some of the nation’s most iconic flagship high streets. Its core mission is to tackle the most pressing issues facing UK high streets and unlock fresh opportunities for growth. While each area will have its own distinct identity and community, these issues are shared – ranging from the rise in retail crime and anti-social behaviour to an outdated business rates and rigid planning system.

The launch event provided a unique opportunity to engage with key decision-makers capable of driving meaningful change. Notable attendees included Gareth Thomas, Minister for Services, Small Business and Exports; Dame Diana Johnson, Policing Minister; Howard Dawber, Deputy Mayor of London for Business & Growth; Councillor Adam Hug and Councillor Geoffrey Barraclough.

To mark the occasion, Dee Corsi, Chief Executive of New West End Company and Chair of High Streets UK, and Bill Addy, Chief Executive Officer of founding BID member Liverpool BID Company, delivered keynote speeches. Both emphasized High Streets UK’s unique position to bridge the gap between local expertise and national policy and highlighted the power of collective action in achieving tangible progress for the nation’s city centres.