There has never been a more important time to think about how local residents are involved in shaping their high streets and town centres. At this event, we discussed the findings of our new report looking at how we can make this work in practice in London and beyond.

Catch up on the discussion

About the event

The coronavirus pandemic has changed our relationships with our local high streets, perhaps forever. Lockdown has accelerated the growth of online shopping and the closure of major retailers, while ‘stay local’ restrictions and the growth of local support groups mean many Londoners feel more connected to their neighbourhood than ever before.

At this webinar, the Centre for London team and experts from local government and communities discussed:

• What would our town centres and high streets look like with more inclusive community involvement? How would this benefit businesses and those working in them?
• How can central and local government best support communities to get involved in their local areas?
• As we emerge from the pandemic, what will be the role of high streets and town centres in our daily life?

Speakers

Vidhya Alakeson, Chief Executive, Power to Change
Tom Sykes, Design & Quality Team Lead, TfL Commercial Development
Caroline Wilson, Director of Inclusive Economy and Jobs, Community Wealth Building Programme, Islington Council
Chair: Claire Harding, Research Director, Centre for London
Presentation: Nikita Quarshie, Researcher, Centre for London