Sparks Bristol’s Post

https://lnkd.in/e7UP93Qe The Built Environment Committee has published its report, ‘High Streets: Life beyond retail?’, following its inquiry into high streets in towns and small cities. The report re-confirms what we have known for some time, including that dominance of retail on high streets is something of the past. Whilst shopping will still be a key feature, there is greater demand and opportunity for restaurants and leisure activities, as well as for more public services, such as health centres and libraries, in town centres. What communities want and what can be sustained on the high street is constantly evolving, so a fixed vision and monolithic approach to their future should be avoided. 

Last week was a big week for high streets with the conclusion of the High Streets Task Force (HSTF) and the publication of the Lords Report. Amongst some, there was mock disappointment that a question mark had been added after retail but that aside the report was seen as reflecting the key learnings and research from HSTF and the wide range of people and organisations who gave evidence. For us, the more interesting points were: - High street reinvention is a team effort and not down to one person or organisation alone. We spend a lot of time on projects trying to ensure that the local authority is not holding responsibility for all of the project – actions needs to be allocated to many - New approaches/buildings/offers need to be embraced by local people rather than forced on them whether that's via consultation, engagement or more informally asking what they think. - Markets and events are great options for experimentation alongside pop-up, meanwhile etc - Amenities are important – parks, toilets, parking. Parking is so emotive and needs to be in the right place for those who need it whether that’s people with access needs, workers or deliveries but we also need a more mature debate on free parking and parking in front of every shop not being the magic formula that will “save the high street” - Make everyone feel safe and welcome across the day and evening (and ensure they can get home) which takes in lighting, transport (and amenities for late night workers) and much more It’s not a one size fits all approach and many places do not need another report; they need help to mobilise and make change happen. We hope that the HSTF and Lords reports help to convey this. If you'd like to discuss how to bring change to your town centre or implement any of the recommended approaches across the two reports, contact us for a chat. #highstreets #activation #animation #towncentres #industryreports https://lnkd.in/gRfJ7DiY

The Built Environment Committee has published its report, ‘High Streets: Life beyond retail?’, following its inquiry into high streets in towns and small cities #smallbusiness #SMEs #ukhousing #ukproperty #markettraders

Streets are the basic building block of cities.

One of the greatest challenges in redeveloping a 1700 acre regional shopping center bisected by two major highways and the regional beltway is incorporating mobility in ways that people will use. Frequency, accessibility and affordability are key.

The future of urban living in New York City appears firmly intertwined with the continued rise of mixed-use developments. What are these mixed-use developments that are shaping the landscape of NYC, and are you actually living in one? LEARN MORE: https://lnkd.in/e9-GhH6a

Places and Spaces Reinvented: what is the future for our towns, high streets and shopping centres? Whatever Government is in power by the end of this week they can take heart from the fact that a renewed sense of optimism is returning to the UK's urban renewal community. According to the latest research by Lambert Smith Hampton and Revo - Retail. Property. Community., there are significant plans for investment and development over the next 5 years in some of our town centres and high streets; but the challenge for a new Government is that more is needed to help deliver their long-term sustainable regeneration. The LSH/Revo report provides some new ideas on how we can all address these challenges. Read more here > https://bit.ly/4eGa77T Or download the report in full here > https://bit.ly/3zszJoB For more information or to arrange a one-to-one discussion to review the report in further detail, please contact Dr. Steve Norris or Vivienne King. #Research #HighStreets #Towns #TownCentres #ShoppingCentres

Eyes on the Street ++ [interesting city planning concepts for economic vitality and safety perception] >> Jane Jacobs' "eyes on the street" concept emphasizes the importance of having a vibrant and active community where people are constantly present and engaged in public spaces. "In a city there are a lot of people living in close proximity. Because you can’t know everybody, there will necessarily be a lot of strangers. In order to create a safe feeling environment, you need eyes on the street. If you are out in a city at night, a place with a vibrant night life feels safer than a deserted street. In order to get eyes on the street, you need a reason for people to be on the street. You need things like stores, bars and restaurants." By encouraging a mix of uses, pedestrian-friendly streets, and active public spaces, cities can create environments that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also foster a strong sense of community and social connection. learn more at https://lnkd.in/eWSefbNd Where There is People, There is Economy Vitality

We've all heard or used the term "new normal" at one time or another over the past few years. While striving to return back to the way our worlds were pre-pandemic, it's sparked a new conversation and inspired us all to reevaluate what we want "normal" to be going forward. As urban populations continue to grow, and individuals look to reclaim their place in the community, the question arises: have our downtowns evolved enough to meet these new demands? Reactivating our city centers and transforming them into vibrant, accessible districts that provide fresh dining choices, retail, office spaces, entertainment, green space, and a broader selection of affordable housing through purposeful placement is the key to community restoration. DLR Group's Jose Sanchez explores these key principles needed to help refine our downtowns and urban living in the latest issue of Urban Land Institute. Check it out! ⬇

4 reasons to believe in the future of our town centres. Our High Streets play an important social role, connecting people and bringing vibrancy, connectivity, and life to the places we live and work. Ian Shepherd from Moving Tribes shares four reasons to believe in the future of our town centres in his latest article. As a former owner of an independent lifestyle store and a former sales and marketing director of a High Street retailer, I found this article to be a compelling read. Check out the article here: https://lnkd.in/gh_Cx7eM Let's stay hopeful and work towards a brighter future for our town centres!