Government launches extra support for recovery of high streets

The High Streets Task Force will provide access to tools, training, information and advice for high streets across England as part of the government’s efforts to get shops back in business safely from 15 June.

The support is open to local councils and all organisations involved with high streets and will include free access to online training programmes, webinars, data and intelligence on topics, including recovery planning and coordination, public space and place marketing.

The support will form one part of the task force’s four-year programme, which will focus on the long-term transformation of town and city centres and helping communities revitalise their high streets.

The task force has confirmed Mark Robinson, co-founder of Ellandi and investor in regional town centres, has been appointed as the chair of the task force board.

Simon Clarke, high streets minister, said: “The re-opening of our high streets will be a crucial part of kick-starting our economic recovery and restarting town life. That is why I welcome the appointment of Mark Robinson to head up the High Streets Task Force. I know that Mark will be a strong voice for ensuring that local businesses get the support they need to reopen safely in the coming weeks.

“Combined with our £50m Reopening High Streets Safely Fund, the work of the task force will support our high streets through this challenging time and ensure they have the tools they need to get back on their feet.”