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Lookup NU author(s): Dr Eman ZiedORCiD, Professor Adam ToddORCiD, Hannah Davies, Professor Clare BambraORCiD
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This submission examines the definition of the high street, what should be included to meet all the needs of the community and suggestions for increasing future resilience and greater footfall of high streets (questions 1, 2, 7 and 8). Through urban planning literature we define the high street as a street where people can gather and fulfil their socio-economic needs, and that is easily accessible, vibrant and enables community wellbeing. The specific provision of activities and retail is secondary to the qualities and social purpose of the street itself. One of the defining attributes of the high street is that is has always been in a state of transition in order to serve the developing needs of the community. We highlight the health and wellbeing effects of the decline in the high street as well as the uneven burden of decline, with deprived areas and certain vulnerable groups being harder hit by amenity loss and hostile architecture. To address this, our research project Ghost Towns aims to create a comprehensive survey of amenity change in English towns and cities and explore the link between amenity loss, deprivation, demographics and health and wellbeing. To support high streets’ resilience, we suggest a common-sense approach in creating places for people that is rooted in urban planning theory, supported by health research, and includes suggestions for local government policy support. We recommend that future redevelopment focuses on creating street appeal for people, not cars, and providing tailored support to deprived local authorities and vulnerable populations. Finally, we should centre equity in all aspects of decision making around high streets, by prioritising safety and accessibility and aiming to create attractive public spaces for all.
Author(s): Zied Abozied E, Munford L, Todd A, Davies H, Bambra C
Publication type: Online Publication
Publication status: Published
Series Title: High Streets in Towns and Small Cities: House of Lords Built Environment Committee Inquiry
Year: 2024
Acceptance date: 02/04/2024
URL: https://committees.parliament.uk/work/8245/high-streets-in-towns-and-small-cities/publications/written-evidence/?SearchTerm=zied&DateFrom=&DateTo=&SessionId=
