Doncaster town centre selected to join high street regeneration programme

Doncaster is among the 33 destinations selected for the Business in the Community’s Healthy High Streets programme.

The programme, first launched in June 2014, aims to increase footfall by 10%, reduce the number of vacant properties by 20% and help create new jobs in 100 towns over three years.

UK high street brands such as Boots UK, EE, Exterion Media, Greggs, Marks & Spencer and Santander and new partner Wilko, are backing the programme.

The town will receive a bespoke package of support, including access to skills and expertise, and High Street Champions from supporting businesses who will work together with the local partnership team, Doncaster Council and relevant local partners to devise an action plan for the town.

Councillor Bill Mordue, cabinet member for business, skills, tourism and culture, said: “Doncaster has a lot to offer but we are constantly working to make further improvements as a thriving town centre is an important part of making our town a fantastic place to live, work and visit.

“We are pleased to be chosen for this scheme and look forward to working with our partners to make it a success.”

The impact results for the three year programme will be announced in July 2017.

Over the last year of the programme, it has brought support and resources worth £17m from its corporate partners into 67 UK high streets.

Robin Foale, managing director of Santander Universities UK, and chair of the Healthy High Streets programme, added: “Congratulations to Doncaster on being chosen to be part of the Healthy High Streets programme.

“This is a great opportunity to work with the business partners and the local High Street Champions to transform your town and create a thriving, vibrant centre for the local community.”

Business in the Community’s Peter Donohoe also commented: “One of the most powerful ways for business to make an impact in communities is by creating high streets that are vibrant places to live, work and do business.

“It has been heartening to see first-hand the practical difference that collaborative, business-led action can make on UK high streets over these past two years. While there is much to be proud of about our Healthy High Streets Programme we also know that there is more work to be done. We warmly welcome Wilko as programme partners and look forward to working with them to create lasting change.”

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