Last night, we traded the office for the heart of retail as we joined the latest Women in Planning London event, hosted at the iconic Kate Spade store in Covent Garden. The evening focused on the ever-changing challenges facing high streets in 2024 and beyond. Bringing together industry experts, we delved into how we can reimagine and revitalise these spaces to create more resilient, vibrant high streets that can thrive in a rapidly evolving retail landscape.
Jessica Wilson, Planning Director at Newsteer, chaired the panel. With extensive experience advising clients on high street developments, Jess introduced the theme of the evening—how we can reimagine and revitalise our high streets in response to changes brought about by the rise of online shopping and the impact of the pandemic.
As Jess shared, “Our high streets need people to succeed. We must rethink how we use these spaces, increase dwell time, and activate them to make high streets places where people want to spend time.” She highlighted how sustainable, flexible developments could ensure high streets remain resilient to future societal shifts.
The panel featured key industry leaders:
- Jo Turner, Place Shaping Coordinator at Westminster City Council
- Rebecca Taylor, Associate Planning Consultant at Gerald Eve
- Penny Moss, Director at Avison Young and expert on the Government’s High Streets Task Force
The panel provided valuable insights into how collaboration, flexible planning policies, and innovative uses of retail spaces can help high streets not only survive but thrive. The event also highlighted the importance of community-driven solutions and how both private and public sectors must work together to address these challenges.
Newsteer is committed to playing a pivotal role in supporting high street regeneration through strategic planning, innovative development, and collaboration with stakeholders. Huge thanks to the Women in Planning committee, including Rachel Lea, for hosting such an insightful event, and we look forward to continuing these important discussions.
