High streets benefit from nearly £100M in funds

Last Saturday, the Culture Secretary announced that £95M of investment will be spent on the revitalisation of 69 high streets across the country, the largest built heritage investment that the government has ever made.

The recent project has been announced after the government pledged to support the nations high streets in adapting to changing consumer habits and will also breathe new life into towns and cities by refurbishing abandoned, yet historic, buildings into shops, houses and community centres.

The funding for this project is comprised, specifically, of £40M from the Department for Digital, Culture Media and Sport’s Heritage High Street Fund, £52M from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government’s Future High Street Fund, and £3M from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The Culture Secretary, Nicky Morgan stated: “Our nation’s heritage is one of our great calling cards to the world, attracting millions of visitors to beautiful historic buildings that sit at the heart of our communities.

“It is right that we ensure these buildings are preserved for future generations but it is important that we make them work for the modern world.”

The Communities Secretary of State, Robert Jenrick added: “I want to make sure the nation’s high streets continue to be at the heart of local communities. Today’s funding, part of the £3.6 billion we have committed to helping towns across the country, will revitalise much-loved historic buildings, helping to reverse the decline of our town centres.

“Ensuring that prosperity and opportunities are available to everyone in this country, not just those in our biggest cities, is a priority of this Government in our mission to ‘level up’ the regions.”

And Historic England’s Chief Executive, Duncan Wilson concluded: “Through physical improvements and cultural activities, we will work with partners to find new ways to regenerate our high streets. It is a challenge, but with our experience and track record, as well as the knowledge and passion of local councils, businesses and community groups our historic high streets can be thriving social hubs once more.”

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