UK government announces 210 million pound boost to regenerate high streets

The UK government has announced a 210 million pound funding package to bring vacant and derelict buildings back into use and support the regeneration of high streets across England.

The investment includes a new 125 million pound Derelict Buildings Fund, which will help local authorities transform vacant shopping centres, disused cinemas and other empty buildings into facilities including shared workspaces, cafes, community hubs, health centres and civic spaces.

A further 65 million pounds will support communities in rescuing and refurbishing local buildings and businesses at risk of closure, including pubs and sports clubs.

The remaining 20 million pounds will be split between High Street Rental Auctions and a new Co-operative Development Programme. The rental auctions funding will support the letting of properties that have been vacant for at least 12 months, while 10 million pounds will help mayors and strategic authorities establish co-operative businesses owned and run by staff, customers and local communities.

The government said the package is designed to give local authorities and communities greater control over the future of their high streets and town centres.

In a statement, Angela Rayner, the government's housing, communities and local government secretary, said the funding would help turn “boarded-up buildings” into places people are proud to visit, while supporting local businesses and jobs. She added: "That’s what this government is about. Backing the people who know their communities best, and giving them the tools to shape their own future and breathe new life into their high streets."

The investment forms part of a wider programme coordinated through the Place Regeneration taskforce, which is working with local government on community regeneration. The government said it will publish a full high streets strategy later this year setting out further measures to transform town centres across England.