The UK’s high streets are the beating hearts of our communities. But they’ve reached a tipping point.
Many of our high streets are in decline. The demise of department stores and the rise of out-of-town and online retail have changed how we shop. Each year, more shuttered buildings sit empty on our high streets. They are left this way by distant owners without a stake in the local community, and many stay vacant for years.
But across the country, people are taking back their high streets. More and more communities are taking ownership over key assets. Community businesses are helping create destination spaces that serve local needs.
We want communities to have the power to create vibrant and resilient high streets that work for them. But to do so, local people must have a seat at the table. They need the opportunities and resources to take ownership of the spaces and places that matter to them. Through evidence and advocacy, we’re working to help communities take back the high street.
Want to work with us? Get in touch with our Portfolio Manager, Kate McKenzie.
Current project
We are calling for government to:
Introduce a Community Right to Buy
A powerful new Community Right to Buy will give communities the right of first refusal to purchase registered Assets of Community Value when they come up for sale.
Invest in a British High Street Investment Vehicle
Unlocking private investment in community-led high street revitalisation could help purchase and restore a diversified portfolio of around 200 properties across England.
Give communities a seat at the table
Government needs to create opportunities for communities, businesses and local government to work together strategically to deliver high street and town centre regeneration. This includes expanding the use of Community Improvement Districts.
Continue the Community Ownership Fund
Over the course of the next Parliament, the government should extend and expand the Community Ownership Fund to help more communities take control of the assets that matter to them.
Introduce a 75% community business rates relief
This would apply to Community Interest Companies and Community Benefit Societies, asset locked forms of community business and among the most common legal forms of community business.
News and views
Our latest thinking and updates on high streets.
Sustainable regeneration: Looking back and moving forward
Christmas can’t save the department store – but communities can
Make high streets great again
Research and reports
What works to help communities take back their high street.
Community Business Market Report 2024
Department stories: How communities are reimagining a national institution
Roots of renewal: Empowering communities, transforming Britain
Get inspired
Stories from communities breathing life back into places.
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