New West End Company launches manifesto for growth ahead of General Election
New West End Company has launched a manifesto ahead of the General Election as it looks to highlight a range of policy priorities and recommendations for the future government.
The Business Improvement District, a partnership of retailers and other businesses in London’s West End, has set out a series of recommendations for politicians to drive growth and investment in the UK’s high streets.
The organisation is urging the future government to prioritise economic growth by undertaking a review of the business rates system, re-introducing tax fee shopping, and addressing chronic skill shortages in key sectors.
It is also recommending measures aimed at improving public safety, including tackling organised crime and anti-social behaviour, having a more visible police presence to deter retail crime, and reviewing the funding model for devolved policing.
In addition, New West End Company is suggesting that the planning system be reformed to make it more flexible, and that access to high streets is improved.
Dee Corsi, chief executive of the New West End Company, said: “As the election nears, ‘growth’ has become a buzzword for both Labour and the Conservatives.
“But if our nation’s politicians are serious about delivering for the business sector, we need to take a long-term approach that tackles unwieldy business rates, encourages innovation by reforming the rigid planning system, and keeps streets safe by remodelling police funding.
“Our manifesto, informed by the more than 600 UK and international businesses that the New West End Company represents, offers any future government a roadmap to do just that.”
New West End Company represents 600 retail, restaurant, hotel and property owners in the West End area that is anchored by Bond Street, Oxford Street, Regent Street and Mayfair.
