Revitalization of Britain's high streets is being spearheaded by local community efforts
In a bid to revitalise high streets and town centres, Community Improvement Districts (CIDs) are being employed in various locations across England. This innovative approach, which emphasises community leadership and engagement, is spearheading the regeneration of these once-thriving spaces.
The pilot project in London, specifically in Kilburn, is focused on building new partnerships to engage the public. Local authorities in Kilburn have empowered residents to act as 'community activators' for walkabouts and public meetings. This community-led approach is part of a national test to better understand community-led regeneration.
The new report, released by an independent trust, Power to Change, outlines the success of CIDs pilots in London, Sunderland, Ipswich, Stretford, and Wolverton. These pilots received £20,000 of funding from Power to Change, and London pilots received additional funding from the Mayor of London through the High Streets for All Challenge.
The Mayor's High Streets for All programme in London fosters local partnerships that promote collaboration between various entities. This includes residents, high street stakeholders, and local authorities. The programme aims to ensure that the voices of the local community are heard in conversations about the future of London's high streets and town centres.
Jules Pipe CBE, Deputy Mayor of London for Planning, Regeneration and Skills, has emphasised the importance of local communities in London's response to the pandemic. He mentioned that high streets are crucial to London's communities, economy, and future. Pipe also stressed the need for local voices to be included in these conversations.
As the world has opened back up, these spaces can now be re-made into areas people want to spend time in again. In Kilburn, the 'One Kilburn' partnership is collaborating with Camden Library and the social enterprise, Library of Things, to offer a service that allows residents to rent out various items.
The pilot in Kilburn is just one example of the positive impact CIDs can have. The report also highlights the need for the right funding and support to facilitate community leadership and engagement in high street regeneration. As we move forward, it is clear that community-led regeneration will play a crucial role in the revitalisation of high streets and town centres across England.
Image Credit: Fons Heijnsbroek.
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