The Conservative Local Government Minister, Grant Shapps MP has announced that Lodge Lane in Liverpool will benefit from the Portas Pilot Scheme for high streets, being a second round winner in the funding competition.
Grant Shapps said: "I'd like to congratulate the 15 town teams that, in the face of stiff competition, have been selected to be the next Portas Pilots. But this is just the tip of the iceberg, and I'm determined that we don't turn our backs on the other 392 Town Teams who put their plans forward to revive their high streets. That's why I'm calling on these communities, led by their MPs, to put themselves forward once again to become Town Team Partners. Each one that applies will benefit from a package of support to refine their plans and get the help and advice they need to bring their town centres back to life.I don't want to lose the incredible momentum and I want to know that no town is left behind after such an enthusiastic and imaginative response to Mary Portas's review. So alongside the 27 Portas Pilots across the country, these Town Team Partners will also be able to revive their high streets and make them the beating hearts of their communities once again."
These 15 pilots will now receive:
- A share of £1.5 million to make their ideas a reality;
- A dedicated contact point in Government to provide advice and support to encourage greater local business growth;
- Free support from retail industry giants led by Boots, as well as Mary Portas's team; and
- Opportunities to meet and discuss lessons learned and experiences with fellow Portas Pilots