Andrew McRae, FSB’s Scotland policy chair, said: “Scotland’s town centres and high streets have long been associated with independent and local businesses. But to ensure these important local places have a bright future, they need to see public sector and big business investment.
“The test of this new action plan will be whether it brings people and money to our centres. We need to see more public sector services and facilities in the heart of our communities. We need to see more bigger businesses choosing to invest on our high streets, after years of chain-store and bank branch closures.
“National and local decision-makers must work with local businesses closely as they develop these proposals. For example, changes to local traffic systems can have a big impact on existing businesses and new schemes must be developed in partnership with local firms and people.
“Ahead of this year’s local government elections, it’s great to see renewed political focus on our town centres. But this attention can’t evaporate when the ballot boxes close.”
Ahead of this year’s Scottish local government elections, FSB has published recommendations for councils. The small business campaign group has also today (Wednesday) published a new election video outlining their key asks of Scottish local authorities.
Notes
- Read more about the Scottish Government and local government proposals: https://www.gov.scot/news/regenerating-the-future-of-scotlands-town-centres/
- E-mail Stuart or Ruth for a copy of the FSB’s council election video.
- As experts in business, FSB offers members a wide range of vital business services, including advice, financial expertise, support and a powerful voice in Government. More information is available at www.fsb.org.uk