Kate Boothman Meier, Director of Corporate Affairs at New West End Company, said:
“For too long, planning loopholes have allowed the proliferation of low-quality retail businesses that can undermine the vitality and attractiveness of our high streets. Oxford Street is recognised as the nation’s high street and we have seen first-hand the difference that can be made when businesses, councils and the police work together to tackle unwanted uses and create a destination that people want to visit, shop, work and spend time in.
“While there is still more to do, today’s announcement is a critical step forward and we therefore strongly welcome the Government’s decision to give councils and communities greater control over the future of their high streets. However, we cannot ignore the role that the business rates system has played in creating the conditions for the proliferation of these stores in the first place.
“While relief for pubs and small businesses is welcome, it cannot come at the expense of larger retailers and flagship destinations. We need a business rates system that supports investment and rewards quality, allowing nationally important locations such as Oxford Street to continue to set the standard for high streets across the country.”
