Our high streets have always been a cornerstone of society – a place to bring communities together, a place for local people to access vital services, and a place for businesses to thrive. But as more people head online, or to out-of-town retail parks for their shopping, it is becoming harder for small businesses on the high street to adjust. That’s why I was delighted to hear James Brokenshire announce at the Conservative Councillors’ Association that today, Saturday 16thMarch, is a national campaign day on high streets, celebrating the contribution high streets, and the businesses and people who work on them, make to our local communities.
It is a priority of this Government to support high streets and local businesses, helping them to adapt and flourish for generations to come; under the Conservative Government councils receive support to spend on modernising high streets, with £675 million of funding to help modernise high streets and town centres. And from April, business rates for 90% of retailers will be cut by one third- saving local businesses up to £8000 a year.
I am passionate about protecting and preserving the high streets at the heart of our communities. My Small Business Awards, sponsored by Patricia J Arnold and Co, champion our local high street businesses, and as always I encourage you to shop local and support our high streets.
