ACS

MPs debated the future of high streets in Parliament on Wednesday.  Martin Linton, MP for Battersea, spoke in Westminster Hall yesterday highlighting concerns that the demand from chain stores to be a part of popular high streets is pushing up rent, creating an environment in which independent stores cannot compete. Linton stated that he thought that more planning policy provisions should be in place to ensure that diverse high streets with a focus on small shops survived.

He called on Iain Wright, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, for the Department for Communities and Local Government, to “apply his mind to what changes can be made in the law to give councils the powers that they need to protect food shops in popular shopping streets.”

Iain Wright responded by saying that the Government recognises that small shops make an important contribution to the character, diversity and vitality of our high streets. He believes that planning can play a key role in promoting retail diversity in our high streets and fostering the conditions that enable small shops to thrive. Wright stated that “local planning authorities have a wide range of planning tools available to help them to plan proactively for the needs of their high streets, large and small. Robust, locally specific and proactive local planning policies that are based on a clear evidence-based local vision are an essential part of that toolkit. It is critical that local authorities and others use those tools effectively.”

James Lowman, Chief Executive of ACS, said: “Planning policy, and specifically town centre first planning policy critically important to the health of our high streets and communities. ACS believes strongly that the planning system should champion diversity above all else, this is the way to maintain the character and vibrancy of our communities. We continue to make this case to Government as they prepare to make change in this policy area.”