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| 17/06/2009 | PUBLIC SECTOR REWARDED FOR DELIVERING THRIVING RETAIL CENTRES |
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Local authorities that are fighting back against the economic downturn to deliver revitalised retail environments and public realm were rewarded today (17 June) at the BCSC Town Centre Environment Awards. Leicester, Liverpool and Merthyr Tydfil Councils were all awarded the Gold Standard, and North East Lincolnshire Council was given a commendation for Grimsby. The winners all delivered dramatic improvements to public realm - with improved pedestrian accessibility and links to local amenities, while ensuring that strong heritage links to the surrounding area were maintained. Crucially, they have all been successful in demonstrating that an attractive, well-designed urban space can significantly boost retail investment and footfall. Andrew Dickens, Redevelopment and Property Consultant, and Chair of the TCE Awards judging panel, commented: “These awards show how crucial local leadership is in driving investment and delivering attractive and accessible retail environments in town and city centres of all sizes. Retail activity does not just deliver economic benefits, but it cements the community focus in a town centre and encourages pivotal activities attached to that - such as festivals and street entertainment - leading to increased vibrancy and civic pride.” Jeremy Collins, BCSC President, said: “The TCE Awards are just one part of BCSC’s continued commitment to recognising the benefits of retail-led regeneration in our town and city centres. We are working hard to find solutions to tackle the problems created by the economic downturn, such as the blight of vacant units and a decline in capital investment. Fundamentally, we need to address a major shift in the balance of risk and responsibility between the public and private sectors.” Councillor Ian Mearns, Deputy Leader of Gateshead Council and Vice Chair of the Local Government Association’s Environment Board, speaking at the event, said: “Protecting town centres against the problems caused by the recession is a key priority for local authorities. Councils are already using existing funds and powers to tackle the issue of empty units and we are lobbying Government for new jurisdiction in this area. Empowering local authorities to take action will be key to supporting local centres, because they are best placed to work with retailers and developers to prepare for recovery.” Issues including the future viability of retail-led development, the impact of the recession on secondary centres, and the impact of changes to empty property rate relief will be debated at this year’s BCSC Annual Conference and Exhibition taking place at Bridgewater Hall and Manchester Central, 9-11 November 2009. For more information on the Conference & Exhibition please visit www.bcsc.org.uk/conference or contact the events team on 020 7227 3450. |
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