Johnson urged to widen high street plans to include small shops

The Federation of Independent Retailers (NFRN) has urged Prime Minister Boris Johnson not to ignore small shops as he pushes ahead with his plans to regenerate Britain’s high streets.

In a speech in the coming week, Johnson is set to explain how a new High Streets strategy will help local communities thrive, by expanding outdoor dining and investing more in sports facilities as part of his promise to “level up” the country’s economy.

“While this move is to be welcomed, we would call on the prime minister to widen his plans beyond the high street,” Stuart Reddish, NFRN national president, commented.

“Shops away from the high street, such as those in local parades, have had a tough time during lockdown. The lengths and breadths that small shops have gone to in keeping their customers fed and safe has been extraordinary, but many are fighting for survival.”

Johnson, who won a 2019 election thanks largely to voters in struggling regions of England, has said he wants to tackle regional inequalities and make sure areas outside of the economic powerhouse London have more opportunities.

“The prime minister is determined to level up the UK and deliver a fairer, stronger society – one where whatever your background and wherever you live, everyone can access the opportunities they need to succeed,” a government spokesperson said in the statement.

In his speech, Johnson is due to talk about creating a more balanced economy, investing in infrastructure and skills, strengthening community and local leadership and putting local needs at the heart of the government’s approach.