Greater Manchester is set to receive a £20 million boost aimed at rejuvenating its local high streets. Announced by Mayor Bev Craig, the Good Growth High Streets Fund will allow businesses, charities, and community groups to apply for funding later this year. This initiative is part of a broader effort to address the decline of high streets, which have seen an increase in boarded-up shops and a loss of independent retailers.
The fund is designed to support a variety of projects, from revitalizing empty storefronts to hosting community events, with the goal of attracting more visitors to these areas. Mayor Craig emphasized the importance of high streets as community hubs, stating that residents deserve to feel pride in their local environments. This funding is part of a larger programme called Our High Streets, which aims to ensure that economic growth benefits all neighbourhoods.
In addition to the new fund, a High Streets Taskforce will be established to guide the initiative, drawing on insights from local businesses and community organizations. This collaborative approach is expected to foster innovative solutions tailored to the unique challenges faced by different areas.
The launch of this fund coincides with ongoing regeneration efforts in Greater Manchester, including the £2 billion Good Growth Fund, which supports community-led projects. As these initiatives unfold, they could significantly reshape the landscape of local high streets, enhancing both economic vitality and community pride.
Source: BBC News
