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15 Apr 2025

Retail Crime Remains Alarming - Bira's Latest Survey Reveals Urgent Need for Action

11 Apr 2025

Bira has cautiously welcomed the Prime Minister's announcement this week on plans to put 'thousands of Bobbies back on the Beat' with a new neighbourhood policing guarantee.

11 Apr 2025

Cycling UK has called for greater, targeted investment in cycling infrastructure across the UK to help more women feel safe and confident to cycle, with the charity urging Government to commit...

10 Apr 2025

Graeme Stickells, Head Trainer at South Africa’s only Cytech training centre Torq Zone Academy, is recovering from a life-threatening hit-and-run incident — and a crowdfunder has...

9 Apr 2025

Seven in ten cyclists in the UK have had their bike stolen, with the average cost of a stolen bike at £612.80 bringing the total estimated cost of thefts to £2.4 billion, according...

8 Apr 2025

MPs from multiple parties are pushing for Cycle to Work scheme to be expanded to include more people, including pensioners and freelancers, with the aim of encouraging more people to cycle.

2 Apr 2025

New regulations around recycling, known as ‘Simpler Recycling’, will soon require non-household municipal premises, including businesses, schools, and hospitals, to separate food...

2 Apr 2025

WorkNest has provided ACT members with essential resources covering statutory employment rates and the upcoming Employment Rights Bill, with the updates aimed at helping independent...

1 Apr 2025

Bira has voiced serious concerns over the latest figures from the BRC-NIQ Shop Price Index for March 2025.

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FSB launches blueprint to revitalise UK high streets and boost tourism

Posted on in Business News , Cycles News

The Federation of Small Businesses has launched a new initiative, which it says aims to transform high streets across the UK, by advancing economic, social, and cultural benefits, while also fostering job creation.

Street Night

With nearly half of small tourism and hospitality businesses located on or near high streets, the future of these bustling hubs is crucial for the growth of the tourism industry.

According to a survey conducted by the FSB, over half (57%) of small hospitality businesses believe that the creation of new tourist attractions and cultural events presents one of the greatest opportunities for revitalising high streets.

In response, the FSB has launched a blueprint titled The Future of the High Street, outlining practical recommendations to make high streets more attractive and accessible, and to boost tourism by encouraging innovative small businesses.

FSB Policy Chair Tina McKenzie highlighted the essential role small businesses play, not only in generating revenue and creating jobs, but also in enhancing the market for other local businesses.

“High streets are more than just commercial spaces; they’re destinations in their own right and are inextricably linked to our tourism industry. To support the industry, we must do more, as a nation, to make radical policy change to breathe a new lease of life into our high streets,” McKenzie said.

The FSB's blueprint calls for key changes, including the provision of affordable commercial space. By filling vacant sites and offering opportunities for small businesses eager to establish themselves, high streets could become hubs of innovation and growth.

The FSB also urges local authorities to create specialised funds that support pop-ups, markets, and temporary use initiatives, allowing first-time businesses to transition onto the high street.

McKenzie also pointed to the importance of modern, well-planned infrastructure, such as improved transport links and parking, in attracting tourists to high streets. “Every high street has a unique heritage and feel, but they all have one thing in common – the need for policies to make them safer, more peaceful, cleaner, and more appealing and exciting,” she added.

Another key recommendation is for the Department of Culture, Media and Sport to collaborate with VisitBritain, VisitEngland, and local visitor economy partnerships to showcase Britain’s local high streets as must-see destinations in international tourism campaigns. This could attract more tourists to lesser-known areas, beyond the usual hotspots, unlocking potential in untapped regions.

In 2023, Britain welcomed 38 million international tourists, who spent £31.1 billion, with an average spend of £819 per visit. While visits remained 7% below pre-pandemic levels, the FSB believes that invigorating high streets can help drive a resurgence in tourism, benefiting local economies and businesses across the country.

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