Acting on the Portas Review: Creating Conditions for Prosperous and Diverse High Streets

Confirmed Speakers Include:

• David Morris, Deputy Director of Local Growth & Regeneration Strategy, DCLG
• Paul Evans, Director, UK Regeneration
• Michael Weedon, Deputy Chief Executive, British Independent Retailers’ Association
• Neil McInroy, Chief Executive, Centre for Local Economic Strategies
• Guy Thomas, Cornwall Town Centre Management Specialist, Cornwall Council
• Matt Weston & Tom James, Senior Associates, Space Makers Agency

The Context:

The Government has now responded to The Portas Review, accepting 27 out of its 28 recommendations and outlining a new package of measures to help high streets reclaim their role at the heart of the community. How are the recommendations of the review to be implemented? And what can local partners do to develop town centres which promote economic growth, create jobs and improve quality of life in local areas?

The Issues:

Following the publication of the government's response to The Portas Review, the key issues to be addressed at this Policy & Practice Briefing will include:

• Examining the Government’s response & implications locally
• Mobilising your Town Team: Formation, membership and role
• Creative thinking and innovation locally
• Reducing bureaucracy and “red tape”
• Utilising discretionary powers to encourage business
• Bringing empty properties back into use
• Setting up and developing Business Improvement Districts
• "Town Centres First" – implications of the new NPFF
• Parking and transport strategies
• New opportunities for funding
• Examples of successful practice
• Portas Pilots: Examining progress so far

Objectives and Outcomes:

The morning policy session will look at the Government's vision for the future of the high street. Delegates will hear how the recommendations of the Portas Review are to be implemented, delivered and funded and have the opportunity to ask questions and share experiences with an expert panel.

The afternoon policy into practice session will be highly interactive, with case studies of innovative trading schemes and the creative use of public spaces. Delegates will hear examples of good practice they can take back to their own settings.

Who Should Attend:

Delegates will be drawn from a range of stakeholders, including: local authorities, (both officers and members) including those working in town centre management / planning, regeneration, economic development, community development, local planning authorities, retailers, construction and development, social enterprises and community groups, central government departments and bodies and those with an interest in this agenda.

Morning refreshments will be served upon arrival with a networking lunch to follow. Any special needs or dietary requirements should be notified to us upon booking.