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21 Nov 2024, more…

National cycling charity launches accreditation for 'cycle-friendly' office buildings

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21 Nov 2024, more…

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19 Nov 2024, more…

Life Cycle Partners with Cytech to Deliver Rehabilitative Bike Maintenance Courses in Prisons

Award-winning cycling charity, Life Cycle, is excited to announce its new partnership with Cytech, the internationally recognised training and accreditation scheme for bicycle technicians.

13 Nov 2024, more…

Halfords remain challenged by weather and market conditions despite positive premium range reception

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8 Nov 2024, more…

Raleigh owner says inventory levels 'back to normal' as it agrees debt reduction measures

Accell Group, owner of Raleigh, Lapierre, Babboe, and other bike brands, has announced that its parts and accessories inventory levels are back to normal, with bike inventory expected to follow...

7 Nov 2024, more…

Torq Zone celebrates 10 years as only Cytech training provider in Africa

Torq Zone Academy proudly celebrates 10 years as the pioneering institution for bicycle technician training7 Nov 2024, more…

Glasgow to receive over £500,000 of cycling infrastructure and community investment

Glasgow is set to receive a substantial boost for cycling infrastructure and community facilities, with over £500,000 of funding to be provided to two major projects.

6 Nov 2024, more…

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FSB launches blueprint to revitalise UK high streets and boost tourism

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FSB launches blueprint to revitalise UK high streets and boost tourism

Posted on 3 Oct 2024

The Federation of Small Businesses has launched a new initiative, which it says aims to transform high streets across the UK, by advancing economic, social, and cultural benefits, while also fostering job creation.

Street Night

With nearly half of small tourism and hospitality businesses located on or near high streets, the future of these bustling hubs is crucial for the growth of the tourism industry.

According to a survey conducted by the FSB, over half (57%) of small hospitality businesses believe that the creation of new tourist attractions and cultural events presents one of the greatest opportunities for revitalising high streets.

In response, the FSB has launched a blueprint titled The Future of the High Street, outlining practical recommendations to make high streets more attractive and accessible, and to boost tourism by encouraging innovative small businesses.

FSB Policy Chair Tina McKenzie highlighted the essential role small businesses play, not only in generating revenue and creating jobs, but also in enhancing the market for other local businesses.

“High streets are more than just commercial spaces; they’re destinations in their own right and are inextricably linked to our tourism industry. To support the industry, we must do more, as a nation, to make radical policy change to breathe a new lease of life into our high streets,” McKenzie said.

The FSB's blueprint calls for key changes, including the provision of affordable commercial space. By filling vacant sites and offering opportunities for small businesses eager to establish themselves, high streets could become hubs of innovation and growth.

The FSB also urges local authorities to create specialised funds that support pop-ups, markets, and temporary use initiatives, allowing first-time businesses to transition onto the high street.

McKenzie also pointed to the importance of modern, well-planned infrastructure, such as improved transport links and parking, in attracting tourists to high streets. “Every high street has a unique heritage and feel, but they all have one thing in common – the need for policies to make them safer, more peaceful, cleaner, and more appealing and exciting,” she added.

Another key recommendation is for the Department of Culture, Media and Sport to collaborate with VisitBritain, VisitEngland, and local visitor economy partnerships to showcase Britain’s local high streets as must-see destinations in international tourism campaigns. This could attract more tourists to lesser-known areas, beyond the usual hotspots, unlocking potential in untapped regions.

In 2023, Britain welcomed 38 million international tourists, who spent £31.1 billion, with an average spend of £819 per visit. While visits remained 7% below pre-pandemic levels, the FSB believes that invigorating high streets can help drive a resurgence in tourism, benefiting local economies and businesses across the country.

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