Highstreet Revitalisation and Anti-Car Measures Bill

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Promote Highstreet Revitalisation and Implement Anti-Car Measures

A bill to promote high street revitalisation by implementing anti-car measures, establishing the Highstreet Revitalisation Fund with additional allocations for means-tested transportation links to reduce car dependency, and supporting active and public transportation, thereby making high streets more appealing to encourage in person visits over online shopping.

BE IT ENACTED by the King’s Most Excellent Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Lords, and Commons, in this present Parliament assembled, and by the authority of the same, as follows:-

Section 1 - Definitions

(1) In this Act:

a) "Highstreet" refers to the main commercial street or area in towns and cities that primarily consists of retail and service businesses.

b) "Local authority" refers to the governing body responsible for municipal administration in specific geographical areas.

Section 2 - Anti-Car Measures

(1) Local authorities shall implement anti-car measures within high street areas to reduce car dependency and promote pedestrian and cyclist-friendly environments.

(2) Anti-car measures may include, but are not limited to:

a) Creating pedestrian only zones in certain high street areas.

b) Installing cycle lanes and facilities for bicycle parking.

c) Restricting access for private vehicles during peak hours.

d) Implementing traffic calming measures to ensure the safety of pedestrians and cyclists.

(3) Local authorities shall conduct public consultations and consider the needs and concerns of residents, businesses, and other stakeholders when determining the implementation of anti-car measures.

Section 3 - Highstreet Revitalisation Fund

(1) The government shall establish the Highstreet Revitalisation Fund to support initiatives aimed at revitalising Highstreet areas and reducing car dependency.

(2) The Highstreet Revitalisation Fund shall be allocated to local authorities based on their proposed projects and plans that align with the goals of Highstreet revitalisation and reducing car usage.

(3) Local authorities may submit means-tested proposals for projects, which may include, but are not limited to:

a) Enhancing public transportation services, including improving bus routes and frequency, with a focus on areas with higher levels of car usage and limited public transport options.

b) Establishing or improving active transportation infrastructure, such as cycling lanes and pedestrian walkways, in areas where car dependency is more prevalent.

c) Initiatives to promote and encourage the use of public transportation, cycling, and walking, with targeted programmes for communities with limited access to transport alternatives.

d) Implementing measures to reduce traffic congestion and enhance safety for pedestrians and cyclists, prioritising high streets with more significant traffic challenges.

e) Improving connectivity between high streets and neighbouring residential areas through accessible and convenient transportation links, with a focus on underserved communities.

f) Supporting local business development and community events to create a vibrant and attractive high street experience, with special attention to areas facing economic challenges.

(4) The government shall allocate a sufficient budget to the Highstreet Revitalisation Fund to support the approved means-tested projects and ensure their successful implementation.

(5) In addition to the £200 million allocated annually for the Highstreet Revitalisation Fund in Section 4, the government may explore supplementary funding sources, including private investment, grants from other government departments, and partnerships with businesses and community organisations, to further enhance the total budget for revitalisation projects and achieve greater impact on highstreets across England.

Section 4 - Reducing Car Dependency and Supporting Active and Public Transportation

(1) The government shall set aside £200 million annually to fund the Highstreet Revitalisation Fund, specifically dedicated to reducing car dependency and promoting active and public transportation initiatives.

(2) Local authorities shall use the allocated funds to implement projects that focus on reducing car usage and enhancing active and public transportation options in and around high street areas.

Section 5 - Promoting Highstreet Appeal

(1) The Highstreet Revitalisation Fund shall also support means tested projects aimed at enhancing the appeal of high streets to attract more visitors and encourage in-person shopping experiences over online purchasing.

(2) Local authorities may propose means-tested projects that:

a) Improve the aesthetics and cleanliness of highstreet areas, with priority given to areas with visible deterioration.

b) Create attractive public spaces, seating areas, and green spaces, particularly in areas with limited recreational options.

c) Organise cultural events, art installations, and entertainment activities to draw people to highstreets, especially in areas with limited social and cultural offerings.

d) Establish high street loyalty programmes and incentives for frequent visitors, with focus on areas struggling to retain customer loyalty.

e) Provide free Wi-Fi access and interactive digital displays to enhance the overall shopping experience, especially in areas with limited technological access.

f) Conduct marketing and promotional campaigns to showcase the unique offerings of high street businesses, with targeted advertising for areas facing economic challenges.

Section 6 - Commencement, Short Title, and Extent

(1) This Act comes into force six months after receiving royal assent.

(2) This Act may be cited as the Highstreet Revitalisation and Anti-Car Measures Act 2023.

(3) This Act extends to England only.

This Bill was submitted by u/Leftywalrus MP CBE 1st Baron Wetwang on behalf of His Majesty’s Most Loyal Opposition.

Opening Speech

Deputy Speaker, As we all know, high streets across England are facing a number of challenges. The rise of online shopping has led to a decline in foot traffic, and many high streets have become increasingly run down and unattractive. This has had a negative impact on local businesses, and it has also made high streets less appealing to residents and visitors. I believe that this bill is essential to the future of high streets in England. By implementing these measures, we can make high streets more vibrant, attractive, and sustainable places to live, work, and visit.

This division will end on 4th September at 10pm BST.