Commenting on the launch of the High Street Review, by Mary Portas, Phil Smith, Managing Director of Business West said: “The report’s recommendations on how to improve the high street are welcomed. Business plays an important role in local communities, and a strong vibrant high street is key to this offer. Consumer trends have changed markedly over recent years, and there is an obvious need for the high street to evolve its offer in order to reflect this changing economy.
“We fully support Mary Portas’ call for councils to use more discretion when applying business rates, particularly for start up companies, as these are a significant barrier for many businesses. Indeed, we believe that If the government really wants to see businesses flourish and create much-needed economic growth, it must go further and reduce the punishing, anti-growth rate rise facing all businesses in 2012.
He added: “However, whilst there is much to support in the report, we should not forget that across the area there are localities where some of the initiatives put forward in the review have been in place for some time. Where there are good working models of high street and centre management, it is important that such partnerships continue to receive and benefit from necessary support.”
On the detail of the report, Tessa Coombes, Policy & Communications Director at Business West, commented: “It is good news for business that Mary Portas has recognised the need to improve and support town centres and high streets by recommending the introduction of some quite simple measures such as encouraging a reduction in parking costs and ensuring a town centre first approach in planning policy.
“We are keen to work with local businesses to ensure our town centres flourish but the same commitment is needed from local and central government, to ensure businesses and communities have the tools they need to succeed.”
For further information see the BIS website