More high streets to receive funding boost

The government has announced that 72 English high streets will share more than £830m, with 57 of these areas announced today (19 May).

Confirmed plans include:

• £17.28m for Grimsby will create a new multiplex cinema and market food hall, which hopes to boost visitor numbers to the town centre. A new public square and events space will be created bringing more vitality to the high street.
• £13.96m investment for Taunton to build new homes, business spaces and hospitality venues, as well as an outdoor performance venue for events to boost visitor numbers.
• £6.28m for Sutton-in-Ashfield for the refurbishment of the Sutton Academy theatre space and repurposing of vacant retail space into offices and hospitality venues. A new pop-up food and events space, as well as better pedestrian links, will encourage more local people to visit the town centre for special events and festivals.

Communities secretary, Robert Jenrick, said: “This funding is part of wider support we are providing to communities and businesses, to protect jobs, support the most vulnerable and ensure no one is left behind as we recover from the pandemic.

“This investment will make a huge difference to towns and cities across England and transform themselves in desired places to shop, visit, live and work. The Future High Streets Fund will support towns, communities and businesses as we get back to enjoying the best of what the high street has to offer.”