High streets set for £319 million investment and boost to playgrounds

Ministers have announced a £301 million High Streets Innovation Fund to revive struggling high streets and make them fit for the future with new homes, health services, libraries, community hubs and green spaces

High streets are set for a £319 million investment to restore pride and transform town centres across the country.

Ministers have announced a £301 million High Streets Innovation Fund to revive struggling high streets and make them fit for the future.

Through these partnerships, the Government believes town centres could be boosted with new homes, health services, libraries, community hubs and green spaces.

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A further £18 million will be spent ensuring children in 66 of the most deprived communities have quality play spaces, with cash earmarked to buy new or upgrade playgrounds across the country. Now in a challenge to Reform, the Communities Secretary has written to rival parties demanding they back the investment.

In his letter, Steve Reed said: “This funding will enable local government to create the generational boost in social and affordable homes; help local communities shape the future of their areas; and give Mayors the resources to invest in game changing economic opportunities to drive up living standards. I want all communities to be able to press ahead in the knowledge that national politics will not be a barrier to these plans.”

Under the plans, ministers will also rip up the rulebook on public spending, with five projects testing a new initiative to get local agencies such as councils, the NHS and schools to pool their cash and work together instead of operating independently. The projects will tackle the SEND challenge in Liverpool, prevent youth offending in the North East, support teenagers struggling with their mental health in the Black Country, help adults facing multiple disadvantages in Doncaster, and get young people into work in West Yorkshire.

Mr Reed added: “People have watched their communities decline for too long, with little say over how they’re run. This government is determined to change that — giving communities the tools, the funding and the power they need to rebuild. From new playgrounds to reimagined high streets, we’re putting power back in people’s hands. People across the country will see and feel the difference this investment makes, restoring pride in local areas.”

A study by IPSOS last year found that only 54% visit their local high street or shopping area at least once a week The Mirror has long campaigned to Save Our High Streets, amid fears Britain was losing its label as a nation of shopkeepers

The announcement includes the £150 million funding announced previously as part of the new High Streets Strategy to help tackle the long-term challenges that our much-loved retail, leisure and hospitality businesses have faced.