Create Streets Urges Low-Cost Aesthetic Fixes for UK High Streets
Create Streets and Cyclehoop released a report arguing that removing street clutter and reducing car traffic can revive UK town centres more effectively than expensive renovations.
The urban thinktank Create Streets and bike storage company Cyclehoop released a report arguing that UK high streets can be revived through low-cost aesthetic and structural changes rather than multimillion-pound revamps. The report advocates for the removal of pedestrian guardrails and plastic planters, which it describes as joyless street furniture, and the reduction of motor traffic to make town centres more appealing for families and pedestrians.
Data in the report suggests that repurposing parking spaces for outdoor dining or e-bike hubs generates significantly more economic value for local shops than car parking. The authors cite Altrincham, Cheshire, as a successful model where creating a walkable, car-free area helped reduce retail vacancies from over 30% to 7%.
These recommendations contrast with the approach of Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who pledged a £210m regeneration fund primarily for building renovations. Create Streets argues that such investments are ineffective if the surrounding streets remain unappealing. David Milner of Create Streets noted that effective improvements are inexpensive, focusing on trees, benches, and the removal of clutter.
