High Street Accelerators programme launched to level up high streets

A new pilot has been launched to help ten struggling high streets.

The High Street Accelerators programme aims to create partnerships that empower residents and community organisations to work together on long-term regeneration plans.

£7 million of funding is intended to help communities partner with local authorities and businesses to address some of the biggest challenges facing their high streets.

The ten areas will initially receive £237,000 each. They can also apply for a share of up to £5 million to improve their high streets’ green spaces and create more pleasant environments for residents to meet and socialise.

The funding will be spent over the next two years.

Areas set to receive funding include Blackpool, Stoke-on-Trent, Hyndburn, Scunthorpe, Oldham, Hull, Blackburn, Grimsby, Tendring and Hyde.

Minister for Levelling Up Jacob Young said: "It has been a tough few years for our high streets following the pandemic and the changes we’ve seen in consumer behaviour.  

"We know that local people know what’s best for their area, and we’re keen to understand the benefits that High Street Accelerators could bring working with local businesses and their communities.  

"These Accelerators will complement other interventions like High Street Rental Auctions, empowering local people to tackle vacancy and other issues on their high streets."