Cherilyn Mackrory, Member of Parliament for Truro and Falmouth, has welcomed the announcement today that Cornwall will be receiving a share of more than half a million pounds as part of a £50m Government boost to support the recovery of our high streets.
To prepare for the reopening of non-essential retail when the scientific advice allows, the Reopening High Streets Safely Fund will help councils in England introduce a range of safety measures in a move to kick-start local economies, get people back to work and customers back to the shops.
It will also support a range of practical safety measures including new signs, street markings and temporary barriers. This will help businesses get ready for when they can begin trading safely, not only in high streets and town and city centres, but also in other public spaces like beachfronts and promenades.
Councils will also be able to use this money to develop local marketing campaigns to explain the changes to the public and reassure them that their high streets and other commercial areas are safe.
Cherilyn said:
“High streets are critical to the economic recovery of our towns and cities and this new fund builds on longer-term funds already in place to support their revival and boost their economic fortunes including the Towns Fund which Truro successfully bid for last year. “
“I welcome this new money which will be provided to Cornwall Council to help make our high streets across Truro and Falmouth ready for reopening when the time comes.”
“I look forward to working with Cornwall Council in order to ensure it is deployed quickly and to maximum benefit to the communities they serve.”
High Streets Minister Simon Clarke MP said:
“As we begin to slowly return to normality, the re-opening our high streets will be key to kick-starting our economic recovery.”
“Levelling up the regions and supporting our high streets has always been central to the mission of this government.”
“Many businesses have already introduced creative ways of trading such as contactless collection or taking orders by instant messaging and shows that they are ready for the challenges ahead.”
“That’s why we are providing an extra £50 million for councils to support a range of safety measures that will help get these businesses back on track and ensure that people can enjoy their time visiting their local high street safely again.”