High Streets and Town Centres

The COVID-19 crisis has had significant impact on our town centres and high streets, exacerbating some previously identified challenges, as well as accelerating some changes that were already underway.

We've decided to make their protection a priority. It's vital that we ensure our town centres and high streets remain vibrant, thriving, accessible spaces and safe for all, which contribute to the prosperity and cohesion of our local communities.

Town Centres and High Streets are one of the four central themes of Southwark’s Economic Renewal Plan, through which we've outlined the actions we're taking in response to the economic challenges brought on by the pandemic.

In addition to this, a dedicated cross-council strategic response for Town Centres and High Streets is in development. This will enable us to reimagine these spaces so that they're fit for the future, balancing retail, business, development and inclusive economic growth, with health and wellbeing, sustainable transport, culture and leisure.

The approach will be structured around five key themes ^{(PDF, 541kb)}, and will align with all other council plans and strategies with relevance to town centres, high streets and neighbourhoods, ensuring that vital lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic help to shape future approaches.

Page last updated: 20 November 2023