Ian Harvey speaks at West Midlands Combined Authority event on the future of high streets

On 12th March 2026, I had the opportunity to speak at an event hosted by the West Midlands Combined Authority, which brought together more than 150 participants from local government, business organisations, and place partnerships across the region.

My talk focused on the future of our high streets and the importance of cross‑sector collaboration in driving town centre regeneration. Drawing on IPM research and our experience working with places across the UK, I highlighted how strong partnership working can build confidence and attract investment into town centres.

I also reflected on the growing importance of devolution and the role of Combined Authorities in shaping local economic strategies. As powers and responsibilities continue to shift toward city regions, Combined Authorities are increasingly central to bringing together local government, businesses, and communities to support place‑based regeneration and high street renewal—particularly in the context of discussions around a new national high street strategy. I noted that the UK already has a substantial body of learning on high streets, through initiatives such as the Portas Review, the Timpson Review, and the High Street Task Force. Any future government strategy should build on this existing evidence and experience.

During the session, I referenced examples from places such as Grimsby, Wallsend, and Goldthorpe, where businesses, civic organisations, and public sector partners are working collectively to strengthen collaboration and support the future of their town centres. I also encouraged attendees to read Making the Most of High Street Investment and to support the Business and Trade Select Committee’s call for a successor to the High Street Task Force.

At the Institute of Place Management, we continue to work closely with national and regional partners to champion evidence‑based approaches to town centre transformation and place leadership.