MPs launch inquiry into future of high streets

The Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee has launched cross-party parliamentary inquiry into the future of England’s high streets and town centres.

MPs will examine the future role of the high street in contributing to local economies and the health, cohesion and cultural life of the local community and the challenges faced amid changing demographic, technological and other trends in recent decades.

In addition, it will look at what the high street will look like in 2030 and if councils have the correct planning, licensing, tax raising and other tools needed to help local areas flourish.

Clive Betts MP, chair of the committee said in a statement: “Our high streets and town centres have an important social, civic and cultural place in our society. But, many of our high streets are now struggling, facing a range of challenges including the threat posed by online retailers.

“Indeed, changing trends and behaviours in recent decades – driven by a range of economic, demographic, social and technological factors – have affected the prosperity and vibrancy of our high streets.”

The inquiry will also examine the legacy of the Government’s previous work on the high street, including the Portas Pilots, the Future High Streets Forum and the Great British High Street.

The committee is currently inviting submissions exploring the economic and health of the high street and town centres across England, as well as social and technological challenges facing the high street, and the outlook for areas that can’t rely on consumer spending and business growth and investment.

The deadline for submissions in June 22.