High streets inquiry: what is the role of the private sector?

• Mark Dransfield, Founder and Managing Director at Dransfield Properties
• Amanda Holmes, Communications and Consultation at Dransfield Properties
• Andrew Malley, Retail Property Director at Dransfield Properties.

This session, which is open to the public, will be held in Committee Room 3 of the House of Lords and streamed live and on demand on Parliament TV.

The purpose of this session is to provide a case study of private sector-led high street renewal and experiences of being a commercial landlord. Topics that will be covered will include:

• What the right mix of retail, leisure and hospitality is to secure a successful high street.
• When considering towns and small cities for private investment, what is looked for and what is avoided.
• Whether the current system provides a competitive advantage to out-of-town retail parks.
• How the business models of private developers and corporate landlords impact on their choices and involvement in local areas.
• The role of local authorities and central government in planning in high street renewal.

More on this inquiry

The Built Environment Committee’s ‘High streets in towns and small cities’ inquiry is exploring how high streets can be regenerated and become more resilient and attractive. The inquiry will consider the different uses of high streets by various communities and businesses and what is essential for them to flourish economically and socially. 

This inquiry has its own web page. The committee’s work can be followed on its website and via X (Twitter).