Tina McKenzie
Policy Chair, Federation of Small Businesses
High streets are a vital part of the UK’s cultural fabric and often spark much discussion and debate. Learn how we can save our high streets.
Over time, high streets have faced significant changes, driven by factors such as shifts in shopping habits, the growth of online retail, and pressures on consumer spending. Despite these challenges, high streets have the potential to thrive and become more resilient — if they, along with the small businesses that form their core, receive the necessary support, policies and infrastructure.
Supporting small businesses on high streets
Earlier this year, we launched our new high streets campaign, which explores the challenges facing small businesses in village, town and city centres. The campaign also outlines a blueprint of specific changes and innovative ideas to help these businesses evolve and thrive, positioning high streets as go-to destinations for the future.
We want to see more pop-ups giving businesses an opportunity to set up in a physical outlet, an improved Small Business Rates Relief package, good public transport links, a welcoming approach to parking and access to clean, modern public toilets.
High streets have the potential to thrive and become more resilient.
Why we need a ‘high street chief’
Creating ‘high street chief’ roles — appointing a manager as the go-to fixer for small firms in the area — would be instrumental in delivering much of what is needed day-to-day. That includes liaising with landlords over empty shop units; having a hotline to the police and local authority when problems occur; and marketing the high street as a destination through bespoke social media accounts.
Resilience planning to future-proof high streets
We are also encouraging local authorities to develop comprehensive resilience and continuity plans for high streets. These must take into account potential future disruptions, like climate change, economic shocks and public health crises. It is crucial that small firms are front and centre of this resilience planning process to ensure they are inclusive and consider local needs.
By providing the infrastructure, planning and flexibility that modern businesses demand, high streets will be equipped with the resources to become resilient, dynamic hubs ready for the future.
To read more about FSB’s The Future of the High Street report, visit fsb.org.uk/FutureHighStreet
