Rachel Reeves, the first woman chancellor in the UK, presented the Labour budget 2024 today, 30th October 2024.

She positioned the budget as “restoring stability to our economy” through a “decade of national renewal”, driving growth with a call of “invest, invest, invest”.

The budget raises £40 billion in taxes and invests £100 billion over the term of the government. 

Read on for the key takeaways every small high street business owner, landlord, champion or any other local economy stakeholder needs to know about the Labour budget 2024. 

Labour Budget 2024: Change to Business Rates 

• Reform of business rates for high streets rolled out from 2026-27.
• 40% relief for retail, hospitality and leisure, up to a cap of £110,000 per business.
• Small business multiplier to be frozen next year.
• Funded by introducing a higher multiplier for the most valuable properties, such as distribution warehouses used by online giants.

Labour Budget 2024: Increase in National Minimum and Living Wage

• National Living Wage to increase from £11.44 to £12.21 an hour from April 2025, up 6.7%.
• National Minimum Wage for 18 to 20-year-olds to rise from £8.60 to £10.00 an hour, up 16.3%.

Labour Budget 2024: Tax For Employees 

• No increase in income tax and national insurance contributions for employees.
• Income tax thresholds remain frozen as announced in the Spring budget until 2028.
• Thresholds to increase with inflation from 2028/29 tax year.

Labour Budget 2024: Change in Insurance Increase for Businesses 

• Rate of employer National Insurance to increase by 1.2 percentage points, from 13.8% to 15% from 6 April 2025.
• Secondary Threshold – the level at which employers start to pay national insurance on each employee’s salary – to fall from £9,100 per year to £5,000 per year.
• Employment Allowance to increase to £10,500 from £5,000.

Labour Budget 2024: Unchanged Corporation Tax 

• Corporation tax to stay capped at 25%.
• Small Profits Rate and marginal relief to stay at current rate and thresholds – no changes in corporation tax for SMEs.

Labour Budget 2024: Continued Entrepreneurs Relief 

• Business Asset Disposal Relief (Entrepreneurs Relief) to stay at 10% this year, increasing to 18% from 6 April 2026.
• Lifetime allowance for Business Asset Disposal Relief to stay at £1 million.

Want support with understanding the impact of the budget?

Get in touch with hello@savethehighstreet.org – we’re here to help, whether you’re a small business, local council, local champion, landlord or anyone else that would like to better understand how the budget could be impacting you, your business or your local economy. 

The post Labour Budget 2024: High Street Business Takeaways first appeared on Savethehighstreet.org.

SaveTheHighStreet.org and Flintshire County Council have joined forces to help the local business community thrive.

Over 40 small business owners across the county have joined our unique business support programme and achieved positive change in their businesses.

But there’s still so much more to come. 

Here’s a breakdown of what’s ahead and how you can get involved… 

Upcoming events, exclusively for Flintshire businesses (all free of charge!)

• November 4th, online: Learn how to grab attention with your window display and create a gold-standard in-store experience from John Abbate, a leading visual merchandiser and customer experience expert.   
• November 11th, in-person: Meet the team in person at The Flintshire High Street Conference at Flint Mountain Park Hotel on 11th November for local business awards, roundtable discussions, updates, presentations, networking opportunities and much more. 
• 21st November, 17:30, online: Learn from Julie Holden, our Community Director, what a traders group is, why your town needs one and exactly how to form one. Everyone who attends will also leave with access to our comprehensive traders group training pack.

Click on the links above to find out more about each event and register for free before spaces fill up. 

Nominate yourself, or another local business owner, for an award 

At The Flintshire High Street Conference on 11th November, we’re excited to be awarding local businesses across the county.

Email Flintshire@savethehighstreet.org if you think you or any other business owner deserves some recognition for running a local business or for supporting the local community as a small business owner.

And remember to register for the conference, here.

1-2-1 support for local businesses 

The final few places are available on our free business support programme in Flintshire. 

Click here to register your interest in getting: 

• A completely-customised Action Plan for moving your business forward
• Hands-on support with putting your plan into action 
• 8 weeks of 1-to-1 mentoring from a high street business expert 

Businesses we’ve supported so far 

We’ve already worked with over 40 businesses in Flintshire and here’s what just some of them have had to say:

• An absolutely amazing experience… one that I think that every business, both big and small, would benefit from in Flintshire. It’s given me that “fire in my belly” feeling again! Thank you!” — Tower Crafts, Holywell. 
• “This programme has helped us to become more profitable, increase footfall and better advertise ourselves. We are so grateful for Lorna’s (business mentor) help every week!” — Holywell Museum, Holywell. 
• “Joanne (my business mentor) has reawakened my passion for my business. I had completely lost motivation but this has given me the kick and support I need to get my business back on track again.” — Peridot Academy, Shotton. 
• “This support has given me the opportunity to properly work on my business, instead of just in it. It’s helped me to put the foundations in place, focus on marketing and increase footfall. Thank you so much!” — Lovelies Delights, Mold. 

Help spread the word 

Do you know any other local businesses or community champions you think should be aware of what we’re doing in the county?

Share this page and help spread the word – the more people we reach, the more impact we’ll achieve together. 

Any questions, thoughts, feedback or ideas, please email us at flintshire@savethehighstreet.org. We’d love to hear from you!

The post Flintshire Town Centre Support Programme: Latest Updates first appeared on Savethehighstreet.org.

Back in March this year, SaveTheHighStreet.org and Redevco, owner of the White Lion Walk shopping centre in Guildford, joined forces to launch a unique competition for up-and-coming high-street brands to win rent-free space to boost occupancy. 

Hundreds of businesses entered but only three could win and in this article, we’re excited to bring you up to speed with the project and what’s happened so far.

What was on offer

Each of our winners received: 

• 8 weeks of completely rent-free space at White Lion Walk, one of Guildford’s prime retail hotspots.
• A place on our JO Accelerator Programme, giving them access to a team of high street experts, 1-to-1 support and a whole host of done-for-you solutions to launch their new stores with success.  
• Help with securing a permanent lease at White Lion Walk and access to ongoing support to grow their businesses. 

At the time of the announcement, Alex Schlagman, Founder of SaveTheHighStreet.org said: 

“We are thrilled to offer this unique opportunity to Guildford’s entrepreneurial community. The White Lion Walk Incubator is more than just free space; it’s a chance to gain invaluable experience and establish a successful business in a prime location.”

Whilst, Claire Yeadon of Redevco said:

“We’re thrilled to announce our partnership with Save the High Street, aligning perfectly with Redevco’s mission to help towns and cities be more sustainable and liveable. This collaborative effort allows us to provide local businesses with a unique opportunity to establish a shop and receive comprehensive support and guidance, ensuring their new ventures thrive.”

Introducing our winners

After much deliberation, Redevco and SaveTheHighStreet.org selected the following three businesses as our lucky winners…

Silent Pool Distillers  

Drawn by a common passion for craft distilling, in 2013 a group of friends came together to create a new kind of distillery, producing handcrafted, artisan spirits with uncompromising quality. In an extraordinary location on the Duke of Northumberland’s Albury Estate, a group of dilapidated farm buildings on the banks of the legendary & mystical Silent Pool has been transformed to become the home of the Silent Pool Distillers. 

Silent Pool is now selling from a prime unit in White Lion Walk. 

Find out more about the brand here. 

My New Fave Collective

My New Fave Collective by Kelly Attfield brings together a diverse range of handmade and originally-designed products from local creators, including clothing, jewellery, homeware, skincare and so much more. The store aims to become the go-to destination for high-quality, handmade gifts with a personal touch in Guildford. 

Kelly first launched the brand online as a jewellery business but, thanks to our competition, has now been able to operate offline for the first time by teaming up with other like-minded local creatives. 

Check out My New Fave on Instagram to find out more.

Rita Botanicals 

Rita Botanicals by Nadia Margherita Jbilou is Guildford’s very first houseplants store, offering a diverse selection of high-quality plants, plant care products and plant-inspired gifts, along with educational workshops and community events.  

Nadia’s journey began at Portobello Road Market in London, where she ran a successful market stall. Winning a spot on the incubator program has now allowed her to scale up her business and realise her lifelong dream of launching her very own store. 

The shop is named after Nadia’s beloved Italian grandmother, Nonna Rita, who instilled in her a deep love for plants and nature. 

Find out more here. 

What’s happening now 

Each of the three businesses are now open in White Lion Walk and attracting local shoppers from across Guildford. The three winning owners are also receiving support from JO, which is helping them succeed and prepare for longer tenancies in the centre. 

We’re helping our winners with their marketing, store design, branding, market research, press outreach and much more, all through our unique business support platform and a team of high street experts. 

Get involved

Looking to launch your own high street store?

Or want help with occupying vacant units in innovative, sustainable ways? 

Whether you’re a small business owner, an aspiring one, landlord, local council, shopping centre manager or anyone else that’s looking to set-up, sustain and scale high street brands, SaveTheHighStreet.org is here to help. 

Get in touch with us at hello@savethehighstreet.org or by completing the form below to let us know what kind of support you’re looking for. We’d love to hear from you. 

The post SaveTheHighStreet.org teams up with Redevco for Guildford vacancy project first appeared on Savethehighstreet.org.

The post SaveTheHighStreet.org & Stevenage Indoor Market announce competition winners first appeared on Savethehighstreet.org.

Following our “Open Your Shop” competition, hosted in partnership with Ankorstart, we’re excited to introduce you to one of our winners who we’re helping to launch on the high street.

Meet Aimee and Lily Barrett, the duo sisters behind Candid Studios

Candid Studios is a unique, South Korean-inspired self-portrait studio where you’re in charge. 

Soon stepping up to their new flagship studio off Portobello Road — which we’re supporting them with — Aimee and Lily are on a mission to flip the script on filtered-to-perfection photos that have come to dominate our social feeds. 

The concept is simple: visit Candid Studios, and capture your true self. At your freest and most fun. They invite you to take control of your story… however you’d like to. 

Say bye to feeling camera shy. No judgement, no photographer, no pressure.

Just you — and whoever you want to bring along for the ride — a studio set-up, some fun props (enter disco ball and a cowboy hat) and a 90s-inspired bedroom vibe.

From capturing the raw beauty of scars and stories of resilience to chronicling love and life’s milestones, the studio seeks to unleash the power of the self-portrait. 

Here’s what Aimee and Lily had to say about their journey so far when we caught up with them!

Why did you start Candid Studios?

“Candid was founded out of our own struggle with self-doubt and self-love. The stories that take place within studio make us so emotional. We want to share the impact Candid has with the world, helping others to step out of their comfort zones and remove self-limiting beliefs. Candid is empowering people to love themselves for who they are and we’re so proud of that!””

Why did you enter the “Open Your Shop” competition?

We wanted to challenge ourselves! We hadn’t ever pitched our business before, and wanted to use this as a learning curve. We had no idea we’d actually get as far as we did and we feel so lucky!

How did you feel when you won the competition? 

SO excited, empowered and grateful!

How have you found the support since you won?

The JO team and SaveTheHighStreet.org are playing a really important role as we grow and scale our business. We feel really lifted every time we connect with the team!

What does the future for Candid Studios look like now?

We can’t believe what the future is looking like with just being founders for 10 months. We have a new studio opening in the summer, more incredible pop-ups planned and we’re also introducing lots of new streams into Candid like more booths and retail. We’re so excited.

Give Candid a follow on Instagram to stay up to date with their journey! 

Have you always wanted to launch your own high street business?

SaveTheHighStreet.org is here to help. 

We launched JO to help both existing and future high street entrepreneurs realise their dreams and achieve their goals.

JO is a unique platform that powers business support for high street businesses like Candid Studios across the UK.

Click here to find out more and to start your journey with us.

The post Introducing Candid Studios: The Award-Winning Self-Portrait Studio in London first appeared on Savethehighstreet.org.

Last year, we launched our exciting “Open Your Shop” competition, in partnership with Ankorstart, to find three worthy winners of expert support to open on the high street for the very first time. 

Over 600 entered, but only three could win. 

And today we’re excited to introduce you to one of our winners…

Meet Selina Kerley, owner of Tied Florist in Swanage

Tied opened its doors for the first time on February 13th this year, just in time for Valentine’s Day! This marked the launch of the first florist in Swanage in almost a decade, bringing stunning, locally-sourced floral designs and a unique selection of artisan gifts to the local seaside town in Purbeck, Dorset. 

After years of working in luxury floral design, including for prestigious events like Wimbledon and the Evening Standard Theatre Awards, we’re proud to have helped Selina achieve her next dream of opening her own florist shop on the high street.

Since its opening, Tied has received overwhelming support from the local community, earning 100% 5-star reviews on Google, with customers praising the exceptional customer service, quality of flower arrangements and the shop’s inviting atmosphere. 

We caught up with Selina to find out about her journey so far!

Why did you enter the “Open Your Shop” competition?

I saw it as an opportunity to receive professional support at a crucial time — just a month before launching on the high street. Venturing into my own business for the first time was both exciting and daunting. The prospect of guidance from professionals who truly understand the dynamics of the British High Street was incredibly appealing.  

How did you feel once you won the competition?

I was genuinely surprised and honoured. Knowing the competition attracted numerous talented and innovative businesses, getting the call announcing my win left me feeling totally elated. It was a real morale boost, especially as it came at a critical juncture!

How has business been since you opened?

Business has been going well since our opening, surpassing expectations. Despite a damp and chilly start to the year, both Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day were huge successes. The support of the local community has been incredibly heartwarming, reaffirming the need for a florist shop in town.

What do you like most about running a high street business?

The creativity, a sense of pride in your work, and connecting with people from all walks of life are what I enjoy the most. As a florist, you have the privilege of contributing to significant moments in people’s lives, from celebrations to heartfelt goodbyes, and it’s really special to be a part of that.

What are your plans for the future of Tied?

I’m on the cusp of launching nationwide deliveries. Being nestled in Purbeck, I’m excited for our customers to be able to handpick fresh flowers at Tied and have them delivered anywhere across the UK within 24 hours. I’m also planning our new subscription service, The Tied Flower Club, for weekly or fortnightly fresh flower deliveries across Purbeck. This is by popular demand; many people have asked about subscription flowers, and I can’t wait to start curating new and interesting floral bunches for people to receive, discover, and learn more about flowers every week. I also have a jam-packed wedding season ahead, so plenty to keep me busy!

And finally, how have you found the support you’ve received since winning the “Open Your Shop” competition?

The support from SaveTheHighStreet.org has been incredible. It feels like having a whole team of experts behind you, supporting you all the way. At the moment, having just opened my first business, it feels like I’m spinning a lot of plates, so I’m even more grateful to have ongoing support that’s also completely tailored to my needs. Each department is so knowledgeable and skilled at what they do. I’m incredibly thankful for the immense experience and expertise I’m benefiting from at such a crucial time in my new business venture.

Show Tied and Selina some love by following the business on Instagram and Facebook. You can also visit Tied’s website here.

Have you always wanted to launch your own high street business?

SaveTheHighStreet.org is here to help. 

We launched JO to help both existing and future high street entrepreneurs realise their dreams and achieve their goals.

JO is a unique platform that powers business support for high street businesses like Tied across the UK.

Click here to find out more and to start your journey with us. 

The post Winning Big on The High Street: Tied Florist in Swanage, Purbeck first appeared on Savethehighstreet.org.

Why sign up

Sign up for a unique package of ‘done for you’ solutions to make the most of this key trading period.

Within 1 week, you’ll get a lot. From detailed personalised reports about your target markets, competition, key differentiators and offerings to high impact new content and a full marketing plan to maximise sales over the coming months.   

You’ll also have access to an expert (who has experience building their own high street business) as well as huge discounts if you want to outsource anything in your new marketing plan. 

This is all available in November 2023 at an 80% discount to make high quality and high impact marketing work affordable for everyone trading from a high street, market or shopping centre.

Sign up today for £469 one-off (a discount of more than 80% from £2,600).

What you get

We will deliver solutions that:

• Identify the ideal target markets for your business
• Lay out the competitive differentiators of your business
• Define the unique offer that addresses your target market and write new content to make sure it’s compelling across your key marketing channels 
• Produce a marketing strategy to attract your target customers
• Create a personalised four-week campaign plan to achieve your most important goals

Your target market report:

In your target market report, you’ll get…

• Business concept and goals
• Market sector, key trends, opportunities and challenges
• Concept fit, strengths and risks 
• Target market, demographics, psychographics and behaviours
• Competitive target market assessment
• Target market segments
• Local market fit and viability
• Your online market

Here’s a snapshot of how we’ll break down your target customer segments…

Your competitor analysis report:

In your competitor analysis report, you’ll get…

• Evaluation of your business against competitive benchmark criteria
• A comparative analysis of your local independent competitors
• A comparative analysis of your local chain competitors
• A comparative analysis of your online competitors
• Ranking of your competitors
• Your competitive differentiators

Here’s a snapshot of how we’ll rank your competitors after analysing each of them…

Your unique offer report:

In your unique offer report, you’ll get…

• Definition of your unique value proposition
• Definition of your unique selling points
• Content for your online brand messaging for

• • Website “About Us” content 
  • Website “What Sets Us Apart” content 
  • Google Business Profile bio content 
  • Social media bios content

Here’s a snapshot of the copy we’ll write to communicate your unique offer…

Your marketing strategy:

In your marketing strategy, you’ll get…

• Define marketing goals
• Assess and prioritise relevant market methods such as:

• • Influencer Campaigns
  • In-store Events and Workshops
  • Loyalty Programs
  • Targeted Social Media Advertising
  • Personalised Email Campaigns
  • Collaborations with Local Businesses
  • Optimisation with Data Analytics
• Define marketing budget
• Measuring Your Marketing Performance

• • Campaign goals
  • Marketing Tracking Systems
  • The Importance of Return on Investment (ROI)

Here’s a snapshot summary of how we’ll build a marketing strategy for you…

Your marketing campaign plan:

In your marketing campaign plan you’ll get…

• Your campaign types:

• • Target customer
  • Campaign KPIs
  • Marketing goals
  • Marketing channels
• A four-week campaign plan across marketing channels

Here’s a snapshot of how we’ll build a marketing campaign plan for you…

All of this is available at a huge discount in November to help local independent businesses in the U.K. make the most of this key trading period. 

Sign up today for £469 one-off (a discount of more than 80% from £2,600).

What’s involved

Once you sign up, you’ll immediately be sent a link to a short survey about you and your business.

Once you complete this survey, we’ll set up a personalised planner for you and start implementing your marketing solutions right away. 

We work intensively and typically have deliverables for all the solutions including your personalised campaign plan ready for you to see within 5 business days. 

If we need any further information from you in this period we will be in touch and always focused on only what we need to get the job done to a high standard while saving you time. 

You’ll then have access to x2 booked calls with an expert Success Manager who has experience building their own business on the high street as well as supporting others like you. Together, you can review your new campaign plan and the deliverables on which it is based, defining practical action steps to achieve your marketing goals. 

More help is available later for everyone on this unique solutions package, always to a high standard and at a big discount to what’s available anywhere else. 

We deliver all this through JO, the first end-to-end support platform for high street businesses. JO exists to make it quicker, cheaper and easier to build successful businesses on the high street.

We’ve helped thousands of local businesses on high streets across the U.K, and this is just the beginning. We believe in a future of diverse thriving high streets led by local independents with the support they need to achieve their potential.

‘We’ve gone from strength to strength in spite of the huge challenges. So much has changed here and my sales have multiplied.’ – Kitchen Croxley

‘This has been a game-changer. They’ve given our business a fresh perspective with their accountability and top-notch advice.’ – Fixio

‘My experience has been transformational. Their team genuinely cares about my success, providing invaluable support.’ – The Homecrafters

The post Boost your marketing impact within 1 week, at an 80% discount! first appeared on Savethehighstreet.org.

The introduction of the Levelling-up and Regeneration Act represents a significant legislative shift with direct implications for property ownership and management on our nation’s high streets and town centres. This Act has been crafted with the intention of countering the trend of retail vacancies and decline in foot traffic, which have increasingly affected the vibrancy and economic health of these urban areas.

Central to the Act is a series of measures that empower local authorities to take decisive action to stimulate regeneration and reoccupation. For landlords, this signifies a new landscape of responsibilities and opportunities. The Act aims to transform high streets and town centres into bustling hubs of commerce and community engagement through strategic interventions. These include the designation of key areas for economic development, the facilitation of property occupation, and the fostering of an environment conducive to both business growth and community cohesion.

The role of the property owner is pivotal in this transformation. Understanding the Act’s nuances will be instrumental in navigating the future of property management and contributing to the collective prosperity of our high streets.

Further details below.  Contact partners@savethehighstreet.org for more information on how the Act, the Vacancy Partnership and new solutions for landlords. 

Background of the Act

The enactment of the Levelling-up and Regeneration Act is a response to the social and economic challenges facing our high streets and town centres. In recent years, we have witnessed a marked increase in vacant properties and a downturn in local commerce, a trend accelerated by the rise of online shopping and changes in consumer behaviour. These shifts have not only diminished the economic vitality of these areas but have also eroded their social fabric.

The traditional role of high streets as bustling centres of trade and community life has been under threat, leading to an urgent need for revitalisation. Economic stagnation in these areas has had a ripple effect, impacting local employment, reducing business rates revenue, and leading to a decline in property values. Socially, the diminishing attractiveness of high streets has weakened community ties and led to underutilised public spaces.

This legislative approach seeks to reverse these trends by empowering local authorities with tools to actively promote and manage the redevelopment of high streets. For landlords, the Act opens up new engagement with local councils and the community, presenting both challenges to adapt to regulatory changes and opportunities to capitalise on potential growth.

Key Provisions of the Act

The Levelling-up and Regeneration Act is a comprehensive piece of legislation designed to address the current challenges facing our high streets and town centres. To summarise, the Act enables local authorities to:

• Designate certain streets and areas as essential for economic and community development, prioritising them for strategic intervention and support.
• Establish the ‘vacancy condition’ for properties, allowing intervention when premises remain unoccupied for a specified duration, thus combating long-term vacancy.
• Facilitate the reoccupation of properties by implementing a structured letting process, including rental auctions to match vacant properties with viable businesses.

For landlords, the implications of this Act are significant and multifaceted. Key provisions that directly affect you include:

• Requirement for Landlord Consent: You are required to seek consent from local authorities before entering into new tenancy agreements once a property has been identified under the vacancy condition.
• Participation in Rental Auctions: Should your property meet the vacancy condition, you may be called upon to participate in rental auctions organised by the local authority, which could influence the selection of tenants and rental terms.
• Compliance with Designation Criteria: If your property falls within a designated high street or town centre, there will be specific criteria for the types of businesses that can occupy the space, focusing on those that enhance the area’s vibrancy and economic activity.
• Appeal Process: The Act provides a clear appeal process should you contest a designation or decision made under its authority, ensuring your rights are protected.

Understanding these components is crucial as you navigate the new regulatory landscape. The Act’s provisions present both the necessity to align with community and economic objectives and the opportunity to benefit from the revitalisation initiatives that these changes are expected to bring.

New Responsibilities for Landlords

With the enactment of the Levelling-up and Regeneration Act, the role high street and town centre landlords is subject to new responsibilities. The Act imposes a duty to work with local authorities to address the issue of vacant premises, a critical factor in the economic and social health of these areas.

Key responsibilities:

• Compliance with Vacancy Condition: If a property is deemed unoccupied under the Act’s ‘vacancy condition,’ the owner is obliged to collaborate with local authorities to find suitable tenants within set timeframes.
• Engagement in Rental Auctions: In certain cases, the owner may be required to participate in rental auctions organised by the local authority, aimed at finding tenants who will contribute positively to the high street’s economic revival.
• Consent for Letting: During the notice period specified by the Act, you must obtain consent from the local authority before entering into new tenancy agreements, ensuring the property’s use aligns with the strategic goals of the Act.
• Adherence to High-Street Use: You must ensure that any new tenancy aligns with the designated high-street use, a measure to maintain the commercial diversity and vibrancy of the area.

Importance of Compliance:

Compliance is not just a legal obligation; it’s a commitment to the collective effort to rejuvenate shared commercial spaces. Adhering to the Act’s requirements signifies dedication to fostering a thriving, economically robust high street.

Consequences of Non-Compliance:

Failure to comply with these stipulations can lead to significant consequences. These may include void tenancy agreements, penalties, and potential legal action. Non-compliance can also hinder the progress of broader revitalisation efforts, impacting the collective value and reputation of the high street.

As we navigate these changes, it is imperative to understand the weight of these new responsibilities and the critical nature of compliance. Working in tandem with local authorities and adhering to the Act’s provisions will not only contribute to the revitalisation of our high streets but also safeguard and potentially enhance the value of investments in high street property.

Opportunities Presented by the Act

The Levelling-up and Regeneration Act, while introducing new responsibilities, also opens up benefits and opportunities for property owners. The Act’s focus on reviving high streets and town centres can significantly enhance the commercial viability and attractiveness of these areas, directly impacting value and profitability of property assets.

Potential Benefits and Opportunities:

• Increased Property Values: The Act’s initiatives aimed at reducing vacancies and enhancing area appeal can lead to an appreciation in property values, augmenting your real estate portfolio’s worth.
• Attracting Quality Tenants: The structured letting process, including rental auctions, increases the likelihood of attracting stable, quality tenants committed to long-term success in the community.
• Enhanced Rental Income: With the revitalisation of high streets, demand for prime locations can increase, potentially leading to higher rental income and more favourable lease terms.
• Investment Incentives: Local authorities may offer grants or incentives for property improvements, facilitating upgrades at reduced costs and improving the desirability of your premises.

Proactive Engagement for Advantageous Outcomes:

Proactive engagement with the Act’s processes is key to realising these benefits. By collaborating closely with local authorities, you can influence decisions that directly affect your properties. Participating in community planning and development discussions can provide insights into future trends, allowing you to position your properties strategically.

Moreover, embracing the vision of revitalised high streets and actively contributing to their transformation can bolster your reputation as a forward-thinking, community-oriented property owner. This reputation can translate into tangible economic advantages as tenants and consumers alike are drawn to businesses that demonstrate a commitment to community and economic development.

In summary, the Levelling-up and Regeneration Act presents an opportunity to not only contribute positively to the community but also to strengthen the financial robustness of your property investments. 

Challenges and Concerns

The Act, while presenting a progressive framework for urban redevelopment, introduces challenges for landlords. Foremost among these is the adaptation to the stringent regulations surrounding the letting process, which may require a change in management strategies to remain compliant.

A significant concern is the restriction on entering new tenancy agreements during notice periods without local authority consent, which may affect timely leasing of vacant properties. This limitation, aimed at ensuring tenancies contribute to the high street’s economic resurgence, could potentially delay income generation from your assets.

The implementation of the vacancy condition also introduces the challenge of increased scrutiny over property occupation. Landlords must be vigilant in monitoring and reporting occupancy status to avoid penalties for non-compliance, adding to the administrative burden.

Moreover, the Act’s emphasis on designated high-street uses restricts the type of tenants you can engage, which might limit the scope of potential leasing opportunities. This could be particularly challenging if the current market trends or your property portfolio do not align with these designated uses.

From the landlord community, there are concerns regarding the potential for increased operational costs, especially if properties require significant investment to meet the high-street use criteria or to attract tenants through rental auctions.

To mitigate these challenges, it is advisable to establish a proactive and collaborative relationship with local authorities. Engaging in open dialogue can provide clarity on the Act’s requirements and foster a partnership approach to high street revitalisation. Staying informed about any available support, such as grants for property improvements, can also alleviate financial pressures.

Understanding and anticipating these challenges will be critical in adjusting to the new landscape shaped by the Act. By doing so, you can position yourself not only to meet your legal obligations but to take advantage of the opportunities for growth and enhancement of your property assets.

Strategies for Landlords

Aligning with the objectives of the Levelling-up and Regeneration Act is imperative for landlords. Here are strategic approaches you can adopt to ensure compliance while enhancing the value of your properties:

Strategic Alignment with High-Street Uses:

Review your property portfolio and consider adjustments to align with the Act’s focus on high-street uses. Proactively repositioning your properties to attract retail, dining, and service-oriented businesses can increase their desirability and value.

Embrace Collaborative Partnerships:

Forge partnerships with local businesses, community groups, and local authorities. Such collaborations can lead to shared visions and initiatives that not only comply with the Act but also add vibrancy and value to your properties.

Invest in Property Upgrades:

Consider investing in improvements that make your properties more attractive to potential tenants and customers. Upgrades that enhance curb appeal, energy efficiency, and functionality can justify higher rents and attract long-term, high-quality tenants.

Utilise Available Incentives:

Stay informed about any financial incentives or support programs offered by local authorities for property development and use these to offset the costs of aligning with the Act’s objectives.

Active Participation in Local Development Plans:

Get involved in local urban planning processes to understand future development plans. This insight can inform strategic decisions about property development and positioning in the market.

Adopt a Proactive Marketing Approach:

Market your properties effectively, highlighting their alignment with the Act’s objectives and their contribution to the high street’s revival. A strong marketing strategy can place your properties at the forefront of desirable locations for businesses.

By adopting these strategies, you can leverage the Act not as a regulatory hurdle, but as an opportunity to enhance the value and profitability of your properties. The Act’s objectives can serve as a roadmap for strategic investment and development, positioning your properties as key players in the economic and social revitalisation of our urban centres.

Case Studies and Examples

The following hypothetical scenarios illustrate the impact of the Levelling-up and Regeneration Act on landlords:

Scenario One: Enhanced Tenancy Quality

Imagine you own a series of retail spaces on a once-thriving high street that’s experienced an increase in vacancies. Under the Act, your local authority initiates a rental auction to fill these vacancies with quality tenants. As a result, a mix of boutique shops, cafes, and a community art space win the auction. These new businesses attract foot traffic, revitalise the street, and in turn, increase the desirability of your properties. Compliance with the Act leads to enhanced tenancy quality and potentially higher rents due to the increased demand for space in a rejuvenated area.

Scenario Two: Diversification of Property Use

You are the landlord of a large, vacant property that previously housed a department store. The local council, using powers granted by the Act, designates your property as part of a high street regeneration project. With guidance and possible financial incentives from the council, you invest in remodelling the space into a multi-use complex including retail units, co-working spaces, and leisure facilities. This diversification aligns with the Act’s objectives, attracts a broad customer base, and increases your property’s value.

Scenario Three: Collaborative Development

In another scenario, you collaborate with local authorities to convert a group of underutilised properties into a residential and retail hub, in line with the Act’s vision. This partnership results in a mixed-use development that meets community needs and aligns with the high street’s character, significantly raising your property’s long-term revenue potential.

Each of these scenarios underscores the Act’s transformative potential when landlords engage proactively with its provisions. By embracing the opportunities presented, you can contribute to and benefit from the sustainable revitalisation of our high streets.

Conclusion

The Levelling-up and Regeneration Act ushers in a new era of responsibility and opportunity for property owners. Key takeaways include the necessity to adapt to enhanced regulatory frameworks, particularly regarding property vacancy and the alignment of tenancy with the Act’s objectives. The Act stipulates landlord engagement in rental auctions and imposes a structured process for tenancy agreements, underscoring the need for active participation in the revitalisation process.

For landlords, compliance is not merely a legal requisite but a chance to capitalise on the economic uplift of regenerated areas. By embracing the Act’s vision, you can elevate the commercial viability of your properties, enhance their value, and contribute to the sustainability of high streets.

Looking ahead, the Act enhances the potential to redefine our high streets and town centres. It promises a collaborative journey towards rejuvenation, with landlords playing a critical role. By aligning with the Act’s provisions, you can be at the forefront of shaping vibrant, economically robust, and community-focused urban landscapes. The future of our high streets and town centres is poised for transformation, and as landlords, you hold a pivotal role in steering this positive change.

Contact partners@savethehighstreet.org for more information on how the Act, the Vacancy Partnership and new solutions for landlords. 

The post Decoding the Levelling-Up and Regeneration Act 2023: A Landlord’s Guide first appeared on Savethehighstreet.org.

The Levelling Up and Regeneration Act marks a significant legislative milestone aimed at addressing the complex challenges faced by high streets and town centres across the nation. Part 10 of the Act – Letting by local authorities of vacant high-street premises – empowers local authorities with new tools and responsibilities to transform essential urban spaces, with the objective of stimulating economic growth, enhancing community engagement, and preserving the unique character of each place.

The Act lays down a legal framework for local councils to designate areas as high streets or town centres, based on economic significance and potential for community benefit. It also outlines the criteria for identifying qualifying premises for high-street use, addresses vacancy conditions, and sets out the process for letting these properties to ensure their return to active use.

The purpose of this article is to explore the implications of the Levelling-up and Regeneration Act for local authorities. It explores the operational, economic, and strategic impacts of the Act, providing a thorough analysis of the responsibilities it places on local councils, the challenges it may present, and the opportunities it undoubtedly creates. This discourse aims to offer insight into how local authorities can effectively navigate and implement the provisions of the Act, transforming policy into practical outcomes for the rejuvenation of high streets and the bolstering of town centres as thriving hubs of commerce and community.

Further details below.  Contact partners@savethehighstreet.org for more information, or to arrange a call regarding this or other high street interventions.

Context and Background

High streets and town centres have long been the economic and social cornerstones of communities across the nation. They are not just commercial transaction points but also serve as cultural and social gathering spaces that reflect the community’s identity and values. Economically, they contribute significantly to local employment and the wider economy, while socially, they foster community cohesion and serve as venues for public discourse and interaction.

However, the traditional high street faces unprecedented challenges. The advent of online shopping, changing consumer habits, and out-of-town retail parks have significantly reduced footfall, leading to an increase in vacant properties and a decline in vibrancy that once characterised these hubs. Economically, this shift has impacted local employment, local government revenue, and local investment. Socially, the erosion of these communal spaces has undermined community engagement, local cultural expression, and social capital.

These challenges have not only economic implications but also profound social consequences. The decline of high streets and town centres can lead to a ‘doughnut effect’, where the core of a town becomes hollowed out as economic and social activities are displaced to the periphery. This undermines the historical role of the high street as a bustling centre of activity and community life.

The Levelling-up and Regeneration Act in part was introduced as a legislative response to this complex issue. Recognising that vibrant high streets are crucial to economic recovery and social wellbeing; the Act provides local authorities with the legislative backing to proactively manage and reverse the decline. It is an acknowledgment of the need for intervention and a strategic approach to revitalisation, equipping local authorities with the means to stimulate investment, encourage enterprise, and restore the high street’s role at the heart of community life.

Overview of the Levelling-up and Regeneration Act

The Levelling-up and Regeneration Act includes several key provisions designed to empower local authorities in rejuvenating their high streets and town centres. One central element of the Act is the power granted to local councils to designate certain streets and areas as crucial for economic development, specifically those with a concentration of retail, dining, and communal services that draw consumer traffic and foster community interaction.

The Act introduces the concept of the ‘vacancy condition,’ a state that a property must meet to be considered for intervention. This condition is defined by properties being unoccupied for a certain period, signalling a need for action to prevent further decline. Once this condition is met, local authorities are authorised to serve a ‘final letting notice,’ which imposes specific obligations on property owners to either seek tenants or allow the local authority to conduct a rental auction.

Additionally, the Act sets out the criteria for what constitutes ‘high-street use’—a range of commercial activities including shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues that are vital for generating footfall and economic activity. Local authorities have the power to enforce these uses, ensuring that properties contribute positively to the local economy.

The Act also outlines the appeal process for landlords who may disagree with the decisions made under its provisions, providing a balanced approach to property management and local governance. This ensures that while local authorities have significant powers to influence and shape the high street landscape, they must also consider the rights and interests of property owners.

Under the Act, local authorities are further empowered to maintain a public register of all designated high streets and town centres, enhancing transparency and accountability. They are charged with ensuring that these designations are kept up to date and reflect the changing dynamics of the local economy.

Moreover, the Act assigns local councils the responsibility to engage with communities and stakeholders in the development of strategies and plans for high street revitalisation. This collaborative approach is intended to create a shared vision for the future of these vital urban areas.

In summary, the Levelling-up and Regeneration Act provides local authorities with a robust framework for addressing the challenges faced by high streets and town centres. By granting them powers to designate, intervene, and enforce, the Act creates a mechanism for local councils to lead the transformation of these spaces, turning them into thriving centres of commerce and community once again.

Designation Powers and Responsibilities

The Levelling-up and Regeneration Act enables local authorities to designate certain streets and areas as high streets and town centres for the purposes of the Act – spaces that are fundamental to economic and social prosperity. This process is pivotal, as it determines which localities will receive focused attention and resources for revitalisation efforts.

Designation begins with a thorough assessment of the street or area in question. Local authorities must consider a variety of factors, such as the current density of retail and service-based businesses, the potential for economic growth, and the area’s accessibility to the public. The concentration of high-street uses – a mix of shops, services, dining, and entertainment options – is also a critical metric, as these are the activities that traditionally drive foot traffic and create vibrant community spaces.

In addition to economic indicators, local authorities must consider the built environment’s configuration. The layout should ideally support a network of pedestrian-friendly streets that enhance the consumer experience and facilitate social interaction. The character and historical significance of the area may also influence the decision, ensuring that the unique identity and heritage of the locality are preserved and celebrated.

Strategically, the designation process requires local authorities to project future needs and trends, taking into account shifting consumer behaviours and the potential impact of digital commerce. They must also engage with community stakeholders – residents, business owners, and property owners – to garner insights and support for the proposed designations. This collaborative approach helps to align the strategic objectives of the Act with the aspirations and needs of the community.

Ultimately, the designation process is a balancing act of economic foresight, urban planning, community engagement, and regulatory insight. Local authorities are tasked with crafting a vision for their high streets and town centres that is not only sustainable and economically sound but also culturally rich and socially inclusive. The strategic considerations taken into account today will lay the groundwork for the thriving high streets of tomorrow.

Economic Implications for Local Authorities

The Levelling-up and Regeneration Act offers a strategic framework for reinvigorating high streets and town centres. By facilitating the designation and subsequent management of these areas, the Act has the potential to stimulate a range of economic benefits.

One of the primary economic influences of the Act is its potential to increase property values. By reducing vacancies and enhancing the appeal of high streets through targeted initiatives, the Act can create a more dynamic market, which in turn can attract investment and stimulate the property sector. Enhanced property values not only benefit individual landlords but can also augment the overall wealth of the community and increase the revenue generated through business rates.

Moreover, the Act can serve as a catalyst for local business growth. With the introduction of new businesses into previously vacant premises, job creation and local employment is likely to increase. This influx of commerce and the accompanying rise in employment can boost local economies, increasing the disposable income circulating within the community and generating a virtuous cycle of economic activity.

The revitalisation efforts encouraged by the Act can also have a broader regenerative effect. A bustling high street can draw in both local shoppers and visitors from further afield, expanding the customer base for businesses and fostering an environment ripe for entrepreneurship and innovation. As high streets become more attractive, they also become more competitive, prompting existing businesses to innovate and improve their offerings, further driving economic growth and resilience.

Operational Implications

The enactment of the Levelling-up and Regeneration Act necessitates a re-evaluation and modification of operational procedures for local authorities. This legislation introduces new duties and powers, requiring local councils to adapt their current practices to effectively manage and implement the Act’s provisions.

One significant procedural change is the systematic approach to identifying and designating high streets and town centres. This requires the development of new protocols for economic analysis, community consultation, and urban planning. Local authorities must establish clear criteria for designations, based on the Act, and create transparent processes for managing these designations over time.

The Act also necessitates enhanced coordination among various departments within local authorities. Economic development units, planning departments, and regulatory compliance teams must work in concert to ensure seamless operationalisation of the Act. This inter-departmental collaboration is crucial for the effective assessment of high streets, the administration of rental auctions, and the enforcement of the Act’s regulations.

Resource allocation becomes a central concern as local authorities must ensure that adequate staffing, funding, and technological resources are in place to support the additional workload. Investment in staff training, public engagement platforms, and data management systems will be essential to handle the complexities of the Act.

Adapting to these changes, local authorities will benefit from a culture of agility and cross-functional collaboration. The successful implementation of the Levelling-up and Regeneration Act hinges on these operational shifts, enabling local councils to turn legislative intent into transformative urban progress.

Community Engagement and Public Relations

Local authorities’ role extends beyond administrative implementation to active community engagement and strategic public relations. Their capacity to harness public support and participation is crucial to the success of revitalisation efforts.

Engagement with the community should be multifaceted and continuous. It must be initiated early in the process to gauge public sentiment, identify local needs, and cultivate community buy-in. Methods such as public forums, surveys, and workshops allow local authorities to collect valuable insights and foster a sense of ownership among community members.

For effective public relations, local authorities should maintain clear, open lines of communication. Regular updates on progress, challenges, and successes keep the community informed and involved. Leveraging local media, social platforms, and direct outreach campaigns can amplify the message and engage a broader audience.

Strategically, local authorities can foster public support by highlighting the Act’s potential benefits, such as economic growth, improved property values, and enhanced community spaces. Showcasing success stories and quick wins can build momentum and demonstrate the positive impact of the Act.

Furthermore, local authorities should identify and collaborate with community champions—individuals and businesses who can advocate for the high street’s potential and galvanise their peers. Such partnerships can lead to stronger community relations and increased public engagement.

Ultimately, the role of local authorities in community engagement and public relations is about building trust, demonstrating efficacy, and ensuring that the revitalisation process is inclusive, transparent, and reflective of the community’s aspirations.

Challenges and Considerations

Local authorities may encounter several challenges in implementing the Levelling-up and Regeneration Act, ranging from logistical hurdles to stakeholder resistance. A primary challenge is ensuring inter-departmental collaboration; the Act requires input from planning, economic development, and regulatory enforcement departments. Another significant challenge is balancing the diverse interests of stakeholders, including property owners, business operators, and community members, whose priorities may not always align with the Act’s objectives.

Additionally, the limited resources of local authorities pose a practical challenge. The Act demands extensive research, management of rental auctions, and continuous monitoring of designated areas, all of which require adequate staffing and funding. The complexity of the legal framework surrounding property rights and tenancy laws presents another layer of difficulty, necessitating a high level of legal expertise.

To overcome these challenges, local authorities can prioritise the establishment of cross-functional teams dedicated to implementing the Act, fostering a culture of collaboration and shared objectives. Engaging external stakeholders through clear communication and involving them in decision-making processes can also alleviate resistance and encourage cooperation.

Addressing resource constraints may require a strategic allocation of existing resources, seeking additional funding where possible, and perhaps most importantly, leveraging technology to streamline processes. Ensuring staff have access to training and legal expertise is essential for navigating the complexities of property and tenancy laws effectively.

“Prevention is better than cure, but anything that helps town centres to progress with filling empty units is welcomed. One challenge will be in the practical aspects of the investment needed to get them up to scratch, if they have been empty for some time. I will be studying the white paper and working closely with our councillors to start a dialogue with the owners of premises which have been vacant and neglected, some for as long as thirty years. If they can be encouraged to start refurbishing without triggering the enforcement powers that would be preferable. But the powers given under this Act should be useful against intransigent landlords.” Joe Cahill, High Street Champion, Ilkeston Derbyshire

Case Studies and Examples

As local authorities begin to implement the Act, various hypothetical scenarios could illustrate the Act’s potential. For instance, a local council might identify a town centre street that, while historically a bustling marketplace, has seen an increase in long-term vacancies. The council, applying its new powers under the Act, designates this street as a high street, setting the stage for transformation.

In this scenario, the local authority could employ a public-private partnership model to incentivise property owners to upgrade and fill vacant shops. They might launch a ‘High Street Challenge Fund,’ inviting local businesses to propose innovative uses for empty spaces, with winning ideas receiving seed funding. Through this initiative, the area could soon see a mix of artisanal boutiques, tech start-ups, and community arts spaces, each adding vibrancy and attracting foot traffic.

Aligning economic incentives with community-driven visions for the high street is important for the success of these initiatives. This approach not only encourages investment but also ensures that development is rooted in the local context and culture.

Another example might involve a local authority using the Act’s provisions to address a town centre blighted by a prominent, empty department store building. The council could facilitate a rental auction, resulting in the building’s conversion into a multi-use space with a food hall, co-working areas, and a rooftop garden, driven by community preferences gathered through outreach campaigns.

A key lesson learned here is the value of adaptive reuse of large vacant properties, turning potential liabilities into assets that serve multiple community needs, catalysing further investment. It also highlights the effectiveness of engaging with the community early and often, ensuring that redevelopment truly reflects local desires and needs.

As these hypothetical examples suggest, the implementation of the Levelling-up and Regeneration Act by local authorities can lead to innovative, community-focused urban renewal. Success is likely driven by strategic collaboration, community engagement, and flexible, data-driven approaches, setting a precedent for best practices in urban economic development.

Conclusion

In summary, the Levelling-up and Regeneration Act represents a transformative legislative tool for local authorities, enabling a structured approach to reinvigorate high streets and town centres. It grants local councils the power to designate vital economic areas, addresses the issue of long-term vacancies through the ‘vacancy condition’, and facilitates the occupation of properties with high-street uses that are beneficial to the community.

The Act empowers local authorities to lead a collaborative transformation process, involving careful planning, community engagement, and strategic resource management. It also underscores the need for local councils to navigate the potential challenges of implementation, such as ensuring cross-departmental coordination, managing stakeholder interests, and overcoming resource limitations.

The transformative potential of the Act for local authorities and communities is considerable. It opens opportunities for economic development, enhances property values, supports local businesses, and fosters community pride. Through proactive implementation and the adoption of emerging best practices, local authorities are positioned to engender meaningful change, ensuring that high streets and town centres can thrive as vibrant, inclusive, and dynamic spaces at the heart of their communities. The Act’s success hinges on the commitment to turn its strategic vision into a lived reality, promising a brighter future for high streets across the nation.

Contact partners@savethehighstreet.org for more information, or to arrange a call regarding this or other high street interventions.

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what are the big predictions for the future of retail?

Retail stores represent where and how we shop. Now we have options to carry out the same task. Here we explore what is the role of a retail store now and in the near future.

Stores are therefore not merely transactional but where customers experience a brand. That includes many touch points along the customer journey, on and offline with various combinations of engaging activities – through social media, e-commerce, browsing, shopping for the fun of it, going for customer service, collecting, or returning purchases, spending time with family and friends, attending events and more.

Activities other than shopping; discovering or learning something new and feeling a sense of community.

Good store design and visual merchandising were never just about designing a purely transactional environment. As designers and merchandisers, we always delivered stores that physically manifested a brand and presented the client’s products and services most appropriately, always considering all the senses.

Stores were originally designed to display products and facilitate customer services

Seating areas, cafes, gift wrapping, and delivery services are by no means anything new. The introduction of technology was another form of display, replacing static images and offering some digital interaction. Other technologies such as augmented reality are still evolving but can it be better than trying an item on and seeing hot it firs, looks, and feels? Especially when already in a store? There is an opportunity for technology to be more than gimmicky and relevant to the in-store experience.

AI could replace salespeople, but it begs the question; what are the benefits of going to a physical store?

Technology can eventually make shopping at home or anywhere other than a store seamless, easy, and fun. So, if the store wants to be relevant, it must be more of an experience than technology can offer. On a positive note, AI could help salespeople deliver a better, more personalised shopping experience and help with many aspects of retail operations.

Predictive analytics can help business owners order the right amount of stock so that stores won’t end up with too much or too little. AI can also track data from online channels, informing better e-commerce strategies.

Humans, as social animals, may continue to want face-to-face and real-life interaction. That is what the store can offer. It will just be one part of a brand experience and be that place where human interaction builds brand loyalty.

The future of a retail store: what are the main factors?

So, the design and overall presentation of a store will be more about designing for these interactions and experiences on top of the product display and services customers need. Efficiently and effectively utilising space will be a challenge as experiential areas will not always be used. Flexibility and modularity may be needed to quickly change space usage.

Store design and VM could be more wasteful. New stores are being built and renovated. and pop-ups are trying to keep up with trends and stay ahead of the competition, leading to a lot of waste. Sustainability is not just a greenwashing trend but a necessity and will be the norm. And it’s a costly material choice. The more it is widely adopted, the more the prices will come down; however,  sustainability and our responsibility to the environment will be more demanding, meaning brands must align their values on this issue.

On a final note

All this leads to one central point, the customer and how they want to shop and interact with brands. Retail has and will continually adapt to their needs and desires. Some retailers will lead the way, and most will just follow, but in the end, attracting and keeping customers returning will be at the root of store design for the foreseeable future. The role of a retail store will evolve as consumer expectations shift and change.

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