Bira has welcomed key elements of Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ Spending Review announcement, particularly increased funding for policing and new investment in deprived communities across the UK.
The association praised the government’s commitment to high street safety and community regeneration following the three-year budget announcement.
Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, said: “In our submission to the spending review we asked for more money to be spent on keeping high streets safe. It looks as if that has happened with more neighbourhood police officers promised and increased spending for the police.
“We also asked for continued investment in high streets around the UK. There have been no specific references to this but we are pleased to see the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has been given a new local growth fund and money to invest in up to 350 deprived communities across the UK, to fund interventions including community cohesion, regeneration and improving the public realm.
“The details are missing but we urge the department and the Mayors to focus on high street regeneration,” added Mr Goodacre. “Independent retailers are the backbone of our high streets and local communities. While we welcome this investment, it’s crucial that it translates into tangible improvements for the independent retail sector.”
Bira has consistently campaigned for enhanced high street safety measures and sustained investment in local communities. The organisation represents thousands of independent retailers through its member associations.
The Spending Review outlines day-to-day budgets for Government departments over the next three years, with the NHS receiving a three per cent annual funding increase and additional resources allocated to defence and housing.
For more Bira news, click here
