AQW 8812/17-22 Written question to the First Minister and deputy First Minister
To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on the High Streets Taskforce; and when the membership of that group will be confirmed.
Asked by Kellie Armstrong MLA on 15 October 2020
- Answered
- Written
- After due date
- Tabled
- 15 October 2020
- Answer due by
- 30 October 2020
- Answered
- 9 November 202025 days after tabling
- Department
- The Executive Office
- Priority question
- No
Answer
An inter-departmental group of officials is currently examining best practice in other jurisdictions, and engaging with stakeholders.
It is clear that our town and city centres face a range of economic and social challenges. Whilst the Covid-19 pandemic has undoubtedly exacerbated the situation, many of the challenges are long-standing; stemming from the financial crisis of 2009, prolonged underinvestment in infrastructure, and changing patterns of consumer behaviour.
This calls for a strategic, sustained response, with Departments and local government working in partnership to deliver a vision for sustainable town and city centres, as thriving sustainable hubs for the retail, services, hospitality and residential sectors.
Our aim is to bring a proposal to the Executive for discussion in the near future.