Our Chairman Phil Jones is one of over 150 experienced professionals appointed to work with towns in England over the next four years, supporting their transformation efforts and helping to tackle complex barriers to change.

Local authorities will receive free expert advice, mentoring and other help, funded by government, that can help them to revitalise their town centres, progress local plans, bid for investment, and respond to the impact of COVID-19.

The High Street Task Force ‘experts register’ is the first of its kind in the UK – bringing together experienced professionals across a broad range of specialisms, from architecture to planning, sustainable design, place leadership and civic engagement.

The ‘experts’ have been recruited from leading national bodies: Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), Landscape Institute, Design Council, and the Institute of Place Management.

Phil has been recruited through the Design Council and will provide advice on transport, street design and placemaking.

Phil said: “Internet shopping and out of town retail parks have had a major impact on high streets and town centres, and the onset of COVID-19 has sadly made the situation worse for many of them.

“As a High Street Task Force Expert, I’m looking forward to helping local authorities create more appealing high street experiences that encourage people to visit town centres, to the benefit of local communities.

“Options to explore include reducing traffic while maintaining good access, creating more walking space and maximising cultural and leisure assets to help create an attractive and unique offering.”

Simon Quin, Executive Director of the High Streets Task Force, added: “Our Experts will work with places in greatest need. They bring deep insight into town centre change and experience of working with communities to build capacity.

“This will support the development of the collaborative and challenging visions our town centres require. The Experts have a broad range of experience and knowledge specialisms that will enable local partnerships to move forward. “

Last year Phil was appointed to the Regional Town Centre Task Force set up by Mayor of the West Midlands Andy Street to help breathe new life into struggling high streets and town centres across the West Midlands.

For more information visit www.highstreetstaskforce.org.uk