High streets to receive 150m boost - but business leaders warn it is "a sticking plaster on a gaping wound"

"Our high streets are the beating heart of Britain, where communities come together and local businesses can grow. Town centres have suffered from high streets falling into decline, and that is why we're taking action to turn the tide with this crucial investment and more to come. We have listened to what people are telling us and that's why we're giving them the power and control to breathe new life back into our high streets and restore the sense of pride communities feel."

"While it's great that the government is recognising the problem, the level of funding is nowhere near enough. With business rate hikes, the government is taking away with one hand and throwing crumbs back with the other."

The government announced a £150 million cash injection targeted at town centres most affected by shop closures, rising costs and declining footfall. The funding is intended to help revive high streets blighted by boarded-up units and the loss of essential local retailers. Further details on allocation and beneficiary areas will be announced in the coming months. Communities secretary Steve Reed framed the investment as a step to reverse decline and restore community pride. Many small business owners and industry leaders warn the funding is dwarfed by pressures like rising business rates, higher wages and weak consumer spending, calling it insufficient.

Read at Business Matters