Waveney MP Peter Aldous is hosting a meeting of Lowestoft traders on Monday 20th February to agree the way forward for submitting bid for a competition to identify 12 pilot towns to share £1 million to drive innovation in the way high streets are managed.

The fund was created after the Government received Mary Portas’ review on the ‘Future of our High Streets’ in December 2011. The review set out a number of recommendations to reinvigorate struggling high streets across the country.

• The competition is to find 12 towns with the best high street blueprint.


• The application has to be submitted by a local partnership or a consortium with a single lead figure by 30th March.


• It would be necessary to put in place a ‘Town Team’, made up of key players including the Council, local landlords, shop keepers and the MP.


• There is an application form to be filled in, which should be accompanied by a short You Tube clip.

Peter Aldous said:

“I believe it is important that Lowestoft submits a bid as I believe we have a great story to tell and put forward an exciting vision for the town’s future. I am holding a meeting with traders at my office next Monday and encourage local traders to contact my Surrey Street Office on 01502 359980 and to attend to discuss the bid.”