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Starmer Launches 'Pride in Place' With New Local Powers to Revive High Streets

Ministers pitch the plan as a route to restore pride in left‑behind neighbourhoods.

Overview

  • The programme directs record investment to more than 330 disadvantaged communities, with the full list of areas and allocations to be confirmed.
  • Councils in England will gain powers to block new gambling venues, vape stores and so‑called fake barbers where they would blight high streets.
  • Communities will get a formal Right to Buy beloved assets such as pubs, parks and libraries, backed by stronger compulsory purchase powers to take over derelict sites.
  • Pride in Place Boards must show genuine engagement with local groups before spending is approved, placing decision‑making in residents’ hands.
  • Officials say legislation and guidance are still to come and coverage will vary across the UK, while industry and local government bodies have begun responding to the proposals.