Retail the backbone to regeneration

Retailers are the backbone of the British economy and high streets the backbone of our local communities. It is of the utmost importance that we create an environment to help them both flourish. If retailers continue disappearing at the current rate or have to rely on CVAs, there will be an immense knock-on effect on the economy, workforce and general desirability of the UK as a whole.

Creating vibrant town centres while balancing the needs of retailers, landlords and local authorities is no easy task. There is no simple or quick fix for this complex issue but we are seeing innovation totally disrupting traditional models. Altrincham town centre and Boxpark are examples of how we can make our retailers and town centres fit for purpose, whilst taking into account local demands and demographics and engaging the community in the process. What is required is a holistic review to redefine centuries old paradigms to make them fit for the future.

Boxpark

Boxpark is the world's first pop-up shopping mall. Made from shipping containers it sees artisan brands and independent food outlets set amongst global brands such as Crocs and Sloggi. Boxpark have created a space perfectly combining retail and leisure which is seen as a destination in its own right.

Food Festival

Altrincham

In 2010 Altrincham in Greater Manchester was said to be the UK's ghost town, with 30% of its shops empty. Regeneration was led by the local community who hosted events to attract people to the centre and were given backing by the local council which has helped drive forward regeneration of core amenities and the development of leisure destinations such as the food market. Loan schemes for small businesses make units more attainable, the 'self-funding' scheme means that when retailers pay back their loans others can borrow. Altrincham has since been crowned best high street in the country at the Great British High Street awards.

DWF's public sector team in partnership with Local Government Chronicle (LGC), conducted a roundtable discussion to establish how retailers, institutional investors and local government can come together to regenerate town centres for the 21st century. Download your copy of our report here >