Networking and insightful guest speaker event over tea/coffee and light breakfast.

According to the Government’s Communities Secretary Steve Reed, our high streets are the beating heart of Britain — where communities come together and local businesses can grow.

For years, the national conversation around high streets has focused on decline, vacancy and changing consumer habits. But what happens when town centres succeed – and why does it matter so much to the wider community?

In this thought-provoking and optimistic session, TV and retail / placemaking consultant Graham Soult FIPM explores the changing role of high streets, and why their future matters far beyond shopping alone.

Drawing on examples from his work and travels across the UK, Graham will also reflect on some of the recurring ingredients that help high streets succeed, while examining how thriving town centres can support community connection, opportunity, wellbeing, local identity and civic pride…
…and why successful high streets still matter more than ever.