Incentives to have premises on high Street

Having a physical presence on the high street offers numerous incentives for retailers, despite the rise of e-commerce. Some of the key reasons include:

Foot Traffic:
High streets attract a significant amount of foot traffic, providing retailers with increased visibility and potential customers.

Brand Presence:
Establishing a store on the high street helps in building brand recognition and credibility among consumers.

Local Community Engagement:
Being part of a high street allows retailers to engage with the local community, fostering relationships and loyalty.

Convenience:
High street locations offer convenience to shoppers who prefer a tactile shopping experience and immediate access to products.

David has outlined a collection of ideas and concepts that can and should be done to welcome and keep high street retailers- be they big brand names or scintillating independents.

Placemaking Benefits

Placemaking plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall appeal of the high street and creating a vibrant shopping environment. Some benefits include:

Attractiveness:
Well-designed public spaces, green areas, and pedestrian-friendly zones attract more visitors to the high street.

Community Engagement:
Placemaking initiatives such as street festivals, art installations, and cultural events help in fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Increased Dwell Time:
A welcoming and aesthetically pleasing environment encourages shoppers to spend more time exploring the high street and visiting different stores.

David has particularised the key needs for any one successful place to succeed and continues to highlight this, notably his self-penned “Placemaking Principles” and “Role of the Traditional Town”  with relevant third parties.

Car Parking

Accessible and affordable car parking facilities are essential for maintaining the popularity of high streets. Benefits of adequate car parking include:

Convenience:
Easy parking options attract shoppers who prefer to drive to the high street, especially for carrying heavy purchases.

Extended Shopping Time:
Ample parking spaces allow shoppers to spend more time browsing and shopping, leading to increased sales for retailers.

Accessibility:
Disabled parking spots and proximity to the high street ensure inclusivity and accessibility for all customers.

David has outlined the merits of implementing free car parking across shopping precincts to boost regeneration for the Local Authority and economy alike.

Shopping Precincts

Shopping precincts like markets and arcades offer a unique shopping experience and contribute to the charm of the high street. Key features include:

Diverse Retail Offerings:
Markets and arcades house a variety of vendors selling unique products, attracting shoppers looking for specialty items.

Cultural Experience:
These precincts often showcase local culture, traditions, and craftsmanship, providing a distinctive shopping experience.

Social Hubs:
Markets and arcades serve as social hubs where shoppers can interact with vendors, discover new products, and enjoy a vibrant atmosphere.

David has been a steadfast supporter of the retail sector which has seen him lend his support successfully to a host of campaigns to save a host of shopping areas for the betterment of the local communities that depend on these.