‘Let's Celebrate Towns’: Visa's UK showcase returns, featuring IPM’s Ian Harvey as judge to champion town centre change
Visa, a global leader in digital payments, in partnership with the British Retail Consortium, has launched the third year of Let’s Celebrate Towns, a nationwide initiative designed to highlight towns across the UK that are fostering local innovation, economic growth, and community resilience.
This year, the judging panel includes Ian Harvey, Head of the Institute of Place Management, adding further credibility and insight into placemaking and community engagement. Ian's extensive experience in supporting communities and IPM's world class research and international network will hep identify and celebrate the UK's most impactful local initiatives.
The Institute of Place Management is the international professional body that supports people committed to developing, managing, and making places better. IPM works closely with communities, local governments, and organisations globally, providing practical tools, knowledge, and training to enhance the quality and vitality of places.
Over the past two years, Let’s Celebrate Towns has invested in 16 communities throughout the UK, including historical tourism initiatives in Annan, Scotland, thriving local food scenes in Bromsgrove, England, and culturally revitalising events in Pontypridd, Wales.
For 2025, towns across the UK are invited to submit success stories and community initiatives in the following categories:
- High Street Transformation
- Small Business Support
- Future Skills
- Connectivity
- Circularity
- Powering Change
Six winning towns will each receive £20,000 to fund approved community projects. Entries from local authorities, parliamentary offices, town councils, and community groups are encouraged between Tuesday 1 April 2025 and Sunday 8 June 2025. Winners will be announced at a ceremony in July.
Ian Harvey, Head of IPM and judge, commented: "Town centres are vital spaces that shape local identity, economic vitality, and community spirit. I’m delighted to join Visa and BRC in celebrating innovative and inspiring initiatives across the country. This is an excellent opportunity to showcase the exceptional work being carried out by communities determined to create vibrant and sustainable towns."
Mandy Lamb, Managing Director, UK & Ireland, Visa, added: “We’re proud to launch our Let’s Celebrate Towns showcase for a third year. With this initiative, we aim to recognise and support towns evolving to meet new challenges, enriching lives, and fostering sustainable growth."
Helen Dickinson, CEO, British Retail Consortium, said: “Retail plays a crucial role in our communities. Through our continued partnership with Visa, we are excited to spotlight towns that are leading the way in innovation and enhancing local experiences."
Entries can be submitted via Visa's dedicated webpage.
Notes to Editors:
Let’s Celebrate Towns 2025 is independently judged by Promo Veritas. Eligible participants must represent local authorities, parliamentary offices, town councils, or relevant community organisations within towns (population between 5,000 and 225,000). For full terms and conditions, visit Visa's dedicated webpage.
For further information, images, or interviews, please contact Grayling: visatott@grayling.com
About the author
Formed in 2006, the Institute of Place Management is the international professional body that supports people committed to developing, managing and making places better.