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Overview

This was the FSF’s flagship campaign – a look at the social and economic value of the British high street, with a focus on ways to enhance the role of town centres and high streets as community assets. We assembled an independent panel of experts from the planning, transport, retail, economics, and arts and culture spheres to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the high street, from online shopping to policy changes and the proliferation of out-of-town development.

From here, we used existing research and economic modelling to quantify the impact of certain challenges on the UK’s socio-economic performance and published a report exploring these findings. The report challenges the role of retail as a catalyst for regeneration, and includes illustrative case studies and design-led thinking, along with our recommendations for future changes in policy.

Report

Collaborators

  • Alan Davey
    Alan DaveyChief Executive, The Arts Council England
  • Dr Andrew Stevenson
    Dr Andrew StevensonSenior Lecturer of Psychology, Manchester Metropolitan University
  • Annemarie Naylor
    Annemarie NaylorDirector, Common Futures
  • Emeka Egbuonu
    Emeka EgbuonuCommunity and Anti-gang Worker and Author
  • Dr Gavin Kelly
    Dr Gavin KellyChief Executive, Resolution Foundation
  • James Bellini
    James BelliniFuturologist
  • John Prevc
    John PrevcArchitect, Make Architects
  • Keith Clarke CBE
    Keith Clarke CBEBuilt Environment Industry Expert
  • Dr Ken Shuttleworth
    Dr Ken ShuttleworthFounder and Chair, Future Spaces Foundation
  • Paul Swinney
    Paul SwinneySenior Economist, Centre for Cities
  • Dr Peter Jones
    Dr Peter JonesProfessor of Transport and Sustainability, University College London
  • Sean Gillies
    Sean GilliesExecutive Director, Retail, Savills
  • Stephen Lucas
    Stephen LucasEconomist