Berkshire: Reading to benefit from high street regeneration programme

Business in the Community’s 'Healthy High Streets' programme aims to increase footfall by 10%, reduce the number of vacant properties by 20% and stimulate the creation of new jobs in 100 towns over three years. The programme first launched in June 2014 and is backed by some of the UK’s biggest high street brands - Boots UK, EE, Exterion Media, Greggs, Marks & Spencer and Santander and new partner Wilko.

Reading has become one of 33 new towns added to the 67 already benefiting from Business in the Community’s 'Healthy High Streets' programme. The programme aims to increase footfall by 10%, reduce the number of vacant properties by 20% and stimulate the creation of new jobs in its targeted 100 towns over three years.

It is backed by some of the UK’s biggest high-street brands including Boots UK, EE, Exterion Media, Greggs, Marks & Spencer and Santander with its new partner Wilko.

As a result of being selected, Reading will receive a bespoke package of support, including access to skills and expertise. The businesses supporting the programme will work together with the local partnership team, local authority and relevant local partners to devise an action plan to address the specific challenges facing the town.

Over the last year of the programme, it has brought into 67 UK high streets support and resources worth £17 million, made up of investment in property upgrades in Healthy High Street towns, the cost of High Street Champions’ time across the 67 towns and senior-management support from across the partner businesses, 

Commenting on the programme’s expansion, Robin Foale, managing director of Santander Universities UK and chair of the Healthy High Streets programme, said “This is a great opportunity for Reading to transform the town and create a thriving, vibrant centre for the local community.”

Bobby Lonergan, district manager of Reading Business Improvement (BID), said: “We are very pleased to have been chosen  to contribute to this worthwhile initiative. Reading BID looks forward to working with all partners involved to help achieve its aims.”

Business in the Community’s Peter Donohoe said: “One of the most powerful ways for business to make an impact in communities is by creating high streets that are vibrant places to live, work and do business.”

Business in the Community is a member of the government’s Future High Streets Forum and supports the High Street Pledge. The pledge is currently supported by over 40 of the UK’s leading businesses. They are committed to using the leadership expertise, skills and resources of their business to help UK high streets achieve their full potential.