High Streets Task Force

Just a quick reminder that all the content of the High Streets Task Force website https://lnkd.in/ecr_XYp including the resource library, is currently being put in the National Archives. Whilst you will be able to get access to all the same information there won't be the same level of search functionality. You have until 31st October to use the HSTF website search function https://lnkd.in/etnHx5fe and download anything you may want to keep.

There’s 1058 resources in the High Streets Task Force resource library https://lnkd.in/e_2PAEEg “It’s an incredible resource” but it’s only available in its current searchable format until 31st October. So please do review the content. After that it will be immortalised in the UK Govenrment Archice - but without the search function. So now’s the time to have a look and see what you want!

High Streets Task Force Waves Goodbye.... As the High Streets Task Force (HSTF) programme comes to an end today, we want to take a moment to celebrate the success of such an incredible programme of collaborative effort and the impact we’ve made together. Over the past five years, we’ve worked with 149 high streets, helping communities, business and their local authorities imagine a new future for their high streets. We helped build partnerships that curate and deliver the change that local people want to see - more events, a better offer, a safer and more welcoming appearance, and a stronger sense of identity. We are proud to say that 91% of stakeholders were satisfied with the support provided! A heartfelt thank you to every single person who contributed to the success of the HSTF. From every partner, expert, mentor, and facilitator, to each group member, delegate, speaker, and resource author — thank you. Special appreciation goes to every board and team member, and all of our colleagues at Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government for commissioning the High Streets Task Force in the first place! But most importantly, thank you to every place leader and place maker who has dedicated their time, passion, and belief (and often much more) to revitalising their local high street. You are the ones who have truly #madeTHEdifference. It has been an absolute privilege to support your work. The High Streets Task Force website and repository will remain live until 31st October 2024 so do please visit if you want to find out more about the work we have done.

Its a wrap. The Placemaking Programme Box has closed for the last time after 40 workshops. Thank you goodnight High Streets Task Force

No I'm about to reach the big 40. 40th placemaking workshop for High Streets Task Force that is. En route to Stalham - looking forward to visiting the town tomorrow before speaking with local stakeholders. However, with some sadness, this is my final piece of work for the Taskforce, which wraps up at the end of the month. I am thankful for the opportunity to visit so many places and meet with enthusiastic local people who care passionately for their high streets. I can't imagine another project which would take me to all parts of England. It has given me a real sense of the state of the nation - and a thorough understanding of the challenges people face every day - but also what the solutions might be. I also found it hugely rewarding to work with the Institute of Place Management professional network - a bunch of people who get 'place' and understand what needs to be done. I have learnt a lot from them. I am convinced the way forward is to empower local communities further. If anyone out there is still looking for support - then there is no magic bullet, no off-the-peg solution, no one-size-fits-all model to follow. The common factor in those places that are making a difference - is good communication between local stakeholders - and collaborative working. Address these challenges and you are halfway there. Over the coming months, we will be putting out more insights from the programme. Watch this space! Institute of Place Management Sonia Cubrilo (MA) FIPM Matthew Colledge MSc FIPM Penny Bell Joe Barratt PS: stop arguing about car parking - in 99% of places it makes no bloody difference - agree on something more interesting and effective to focus on. And clean-up the litter!

The High Streets Task Force is coming to an end. However… We are currently exploring ways of how the website content can remain available for years to come. Yet while we are still busy completing the program, please take advantage of this resource by visiting the live site. https://lnkd.in/dpRDpEh.

While you solve where Steve Millington is this evening (along with Matthew Colledge MSc FIPM & Michael Sewell no less) it’s worth mentioning that the plethora of support content and resources are still available to use at the High Streets Task Force website.

In my ongoing attempt to redefine my comfort zone, today I am giving oral evidence to the House of Lords Built Environment Committee inquiry into High Streets in towns and small cities. If you are bored at work, ill at home or on holiday and its raining, you can watch live at 10:45 here: https://lnkd.in/eiUUvxBA You may find out: -What has the Task Force been up to for 5 years? -Was it a success? -What I think of levelling up more generally; and -If I will wear a tie With thanks to Cathy Parker MBE, SFIPM Matthew Colledge MSc FIPM for helping me prep. High Streets Task Force Ellandi

Last week I attended the High Street Task Force local roadshow in Bristol. Place leaders and advocates for high streets were in abundance. So many great takeaways from inspiring speakers and fabulous connections made - a great celebration of places and the people who champion them! Thank you to Institute of Place Management Matthew Davis FIPM Steve Millington Matthew Colledge MSc FIPM Rebecca Lockwood Norris Hannah Harrington for making it such a great day. Love this quote "Placemaking shouldn't start with masterplans but with people collaborating to make active, living places that have meaning and are cared for by their communities" - too right. #highstreets #HSTF #placemaking #retail #place #connections #lovebridgnorth #lovewellington

Our final Roadshow today. Engaging with hundreds of placemakers across England from Wakefield to Whitechapel.