The BRC has welcomed Andy Burnham’s ambition to make “high streets the new symbol of Britain’s renaissance”, set out by the Labour leadership frontrunner in a speech today.
Speaking in Manchester, the Makerfield MP said that if he became PM he would deliver “growth in every postcode” by creating a ‘Number 10 North’ in Manchester.
“We will bring higher-density residential development to our towns,” said Burnham. “The No 10 North will be able to support all places to turn around those towns, their high streets and the local centres, increasing footfall on the high street and protecting more green spaces from development.
“To reinforce that, we will reform business rates to support pubs and high street businesses, businesses that bring social benefits to communities.
“And let me finish by saying this. Rather than being a marker of decline, shouldn’t we make our high streets the new symbol of Britain’s renaissance?”
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BRC CEO Helen Dickinson said: “Retailers will be heartened to hear Andy Burnham’s ambition to create ‘good growth in every postcode’. Retail sits at the heart of our local economies, providing jobs, investment, and essential goods and services for local people.
“Retailers want to be at the forefront of ‘Britain’s renaissance’, helping revitalise our towns, cities, and high streets. Andy Burnham is right to recognise that business rates reform is essential to unlocking that investment. The current system remains broken, holding back growth, jobs and regeneration in communities across the country.
“If government can buy into retail, putting the right reforms in place, retailers will help deliver jobs, support families with the cost of living, and create the thriving high streets that sit at the heart of Andy Burnham’s vision.”
Burnham has previously said he will raise the threshold at which firms start paying business rates from £12,000 to £18,000, a move that would lift the tax burden entirely for many single-site operators. He has also pledged a 20% business rates reduction for pubs and music venues, with the cuts to be funded by ensuring online tech giants pay their “fair share”.
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