£5 billion and new powers for high streets

The UK Government’s new ‘Pride in Place’ programme was announced on 25th September 2025.

This marks a landmark moment for high streets, with £5 billion of funding and new powers for 339 high streets and communities across the UK.

What’s included?
For the first time, local communities will be given the power to seize, repopulate and repurpose empty high street properties — ensuring vacant units are brought back into use for the benefit of local people. Each place will also receive up to £20 million in funding to boost its high street, restore pride of place, and strengthen its local economy.

For too long, too many high streets have been held back by boarded-up shops, derelict spaces and decisions made far from the communities most affected. This announcement begins to change that.

At SaveTheHighStreet.org, we welcome this historic transfer of power and investment from Whitehall to local places. Thriving high streets need thriving independents, supported by the people who know their towns and cities best.

With 25,000+ local businesses and partners already supported, and proven solutions de in Placethat boost local entrepreneurs and repopulate empty spaces, we stand ready to partner with communities, councils and landlords to make this new vision a reality.

Through Thriver (HelloThriver.com) and our partner solutions — Accelerators, Incubators, and Anchors — we can help ensure this new funding delivers lasting, measurable impact on the ground.

It’s been too hard for too many for too long. That changes now.

Get in touch to find out more — we’re here to help.  Email hello@savethehighstreet.org or click here to register.