Revitalization Efforts on Britain's High Streets Gain Momentum through Community Involvement
In the heart of London, the 'One Kilburn' partnership is collaborating with Camden Library and the social enterprise, Library of Things, to offer a unique service. Residents can now rent out various items, aiming to help them afford items they otherwise couldn't. This initiative is part of a broader effort to regenerate high streets and town centres across England.
The Mayor's High Streets for All programme, a key player in this movement, is working tirelessly to understand how local communities can play a significant role in community-led regeneration across the city. The programme is part of a national pilot, testing the concept of Community Improvement Districts (CIDs), which aim to form local partnerships between residents, high street stakeholders, and local authorities.
The pilot project, funded by Power to Change and additional funding from the Mayor of London through the High Streets for All Challenge, is making strides in Kilburn. Local authorities are empowering residents to act as 'community activators' for walkabouts and public meetings, fostering a sense of ownership and engagement.
According to a new report by Sheffield Hallam University, there is a strong public interest in high streets and town centres in England. The report underscores the importance of community leadership and engagement in achieving successful high street regeneration. It also stresses the need for the right funding and support to facilitate this engagement.
The support for this community-based pilot project for the regeneration of High Streets in the UK was provided by the High Streets Task Force. Furthermore, the project received additional funding in London through a contribution from the Mayor of London’s Good Growth Fund.
As the world has opened back up, these spaces can now be re-made into areas people want to spend time in again. Jules Pipe CBE, Deputy Mayor of London for Planning, Regeneration and Skills, emphasizes the importance of local communities in the future of London's high streets and town centres. He highlights that high streets in London are vital to the capital's communities, economy, and future.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, high streets and town centres in England became deserted and unkept. However, local communities played a key role in London's response, providing vital mutual aid. The pilot project in London, specifically in Kilburn, is focusing on building new partnerships to engage the public and revitalize these spaces.
The success of the CIDs pilots in London, Sunderland, Ipswich, Stretford, and Wolverton, as outlined in a recent report, serves as a beacon of hope for the future of high streets in England. With community leadership and collaboration, these spaces can once again become thriving hubs of activity and engagement.
