Today will see the high street firmly at the centre of Northern Ireland’s Alliance Party’s attention, as spokespeople Kate Nicholl MLA and David Honeyford MLA state that high streets and town centres are essential components in the social fabric of our communities and the lifeblood of local economies in the country, arguing that they must be invested in.
They will speak before an Alliance motion, to be heard today, recognising the importance of high streets and town centres. The motion calls on the Economy Minister to develop a comprehensive strategy for rejuvenating these areas.
Nicholl said: “High streets are at the heart of communities across Northern Ireland, serving as vital spaces for connection and social cohesion. They provide jobs, vibrancy, and essential services, yet they face enormous pressures from online shopping, out-of-town retail parks, and the impacts of COVID-19.
“The High Street Taskforce offered valuable recommendations for revitalising our high streets, but these have yet to be acted upon. Recently, the First and Deputy First Ministers recognised that these recommendations require a cross-departmental approach. Alliance believes the Department for the Economy should take a leading role in this group, as rejuvenating our high streets is an economic imperative. It is crucial we develop creative and innovative policies to support these areas, as they are the lifeblood of our local economies and essential components in the social fabric of our communities.”
Honeyford added: “The days of viewing our high streets as solely economic spaces are over. We need to transform and reimagine our town centres so they contribute not only to economic growth but also provide opportunities for everyone. In addition to supporting retail and hospitality ventures in our towns, we want to see policies developed that will help build vibrant and inclusive ‘living cities’. That will encourage city centre living and improve access to green spaces within urban areas.
“Using rate relief to inspire a reimagining of our town centres, creating mixed-use spaces that also incorporate the Arts, and building shared communities that benefit everyone. Further investment is also required to enhance connections by providing more cost-effective and reliable public transportation options. I hope our motion will bring about a focused effort that will help drive the necessary changes to support these vital communities.”
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