Lib Dems debate how to end crisis in country’s town centres

The debate focuses on the party’s motion to Spring Conference – Town Centres fit for the future. The motion sets out bold measures to ensure town centres flourish in an increasingly digital economy

Measures include: boosting support for local entrepreneurs; reforming local planning laws; developing local asset registers; and creating a new industry-led body to help brick-and-mortar retailers adapt to the digital economy.

The motion also reiterates the Liberal Democrats’ commitment to replacing business rates with a land value tax, thereby boosting investment, rebalancing the economy and cutting the average tax bill in over 90% of local authorities.

Speaking ahead of the debate, Liberal Democrat Communities and Local Government Spokesperson Tim Farron said:

The crisis we are witnessing in our town centres is clear to us all. Whilst Brexit is partly responsible, at the root of the issue is our broken business rates system.

It is only right we welcome the benefits of the 21st century economy, but we cannot ignore the plight of our high streets and all those affected. As more and more individuals switch to online retail, businesses are struggling and thousands of jobs are being lost.

Business rates should be replaced with a land value tax that encourages businesses to invest, whilst we must also empower local areas by reforming planning and supporting entrepreneurs. It is not to late to save our town centres and these measures would do just that.

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