Issue - meetings

To receive an update on the Council’s Pride in Our High Street programme.

RESOLVED – that:

a)    the work of the Pride in Our High Streets (PIOHS) programme in supporting resilient local high streets, local businesses and communities of the borough be noted; and

b)    the continuation of the PIOHS programme and the development of the Elevate programme including potential new initiatives, such as: ‘Spend Booster’ be noted.

The Cabinet Member for Jobs, Transport & Digital Connectivity presented an update on the Pride in Our High Streets programme.

The report outlined the Council’s long-term investment in supporting town centres and local businesses across the Borough. Since the programme’s inception in 2015, it had supported 133 new businesses, delivered 138 shopfront improvements and provided over 100 digital and environmental grants.

Through approximately £725,000 of public investment, the programme had leveraged £2.46m in private sector investment and supported the creation of over 440 jobs. Vacancy rates remained significantly below national levels, with only 24 empty units across 727 retail properties.

The Cabinet Member for Jobs, Transport & Digital Connectivity highlighted the programme’s role in adapting high streets to modern challenges, including the shift towards experience-based economies and digital adoption.

Cabinet Members emphasised that continued investment had enabled Telford and Wrekin to outperform national trends, maintaining vibrant and resilient local centres.

The Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group welcomed the report and recognised the importance of supporting local businesses and maintaining vibrant community spaces within town centres.

The Leader of the Conservative Group expressed support for the programme, noting the need for the Council to continue to adapt to wider economic pressures affecting high streets nationally.

RESOLVED – that:

a)    the work of the Pride in Our High Streets (PIOHS) programme in supporting resilient local high streets, local businesses and communities of the borough be noted; and

b)    the continuation of the PIOHS programme and the development of the Elevate programme including potential new initiatives, such as: ‘Spend Booster’ be noted.