Local MP Maria Miller has welcomed the launch of the new Build Back Better High Streets Strategy – which sets out how high streets across Basingstoke will be transformed into thriving places to live, work and visit after the pandemic.
Measures in the strategy include extending pavement licences; empowering councils to take over vacant buildings through compulsory purchase orders so they can be converted into high quality homes; and backing more entrepreneurs, start-ups and independent businesses through new guidance for areas on how they can best support local businesses.
Further details have been published setting out how community groups in Basingstoke can bid for up to £250,000 in matched funding through the Government’s new £150 million Community Ownership Fund to take over local pubs, theatres, shops and sports grounds at risk of closure.
Maria said “I know how much people in Basingstoke treasure their local high street – and as we emerge from the pandemic, I am determined to support their recovery so they can thrive in the long-term.
“This high street strategy will help to deliver that – supporting hospitality businesses with more freedoms to trade, encouraging local events so that people can come together and enjoy themselves, and giving local people a real stake in their community.”
Commenting, Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick said, “As we build back better from the pandemic, we have a once in a generation opportunity to transform our high streets into the kind of vibrant places we will want to visit, work and live for generations to come.
“This strategy sets out a vision for entrepreneurship to thrive, where empty buildings are transformed into quality homes and disused shopping centres become buzzing new hubs for business and entertainment.
“With more funding for town centres and powers for communities to take a stake in their local area, we are delivering on our commitments to level up and cement real and lasting change for all areas of the country.”
As part of the Government’s drive to improve local high streets, the strategy also increases funding for ‘mini-Holland’ schemes to encourage cycling, walking and green forms of travel; introduces plans to eradicate chewing gum litter, along with new guidance for councils to manage graffiti; and outlines how millions of trees will be planted on high streets to improve green spaces.
It will also be easier for people to hold street parties and picnics during national celebrations like the Euros and Commonwealth Games, as well as for Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022, encouraging local events so that communities across the UK can come together and celebrate local culture and pride.