Altrincham has been shortlisted for a national award by the Great British High Street competition.
The town is up against Rotherham in South Yorkshire and Tamworth in Staffordshire in the Town Centre category, which recognises “vibrant town centres that are fighting to transform their high streets”.
Along with all those towns and villages shortlisted, Altrincham will now be visited by the Future High Streets Forum judging panel, which includes representatives from the likes of Boots, Costa, Marks and Spencer, the Post Office and Google. This year’s competition saw a record 230 applicants.
The category winners, which will be announced next month ahead of a ceremony in December, will be decided by an equal mix of a public vote – you can cast your vote here now – and a judging panel.
Winners will share a prize of £50,000 and a range of support including business mentoring, workshops and help to promote their high street.
Altrincham’s citation on the Great British High Street website reads: “In 2010, Altrincham had one of the highest town centre vacancy rate in the UK at 37%. Altrincham Forward, a public–private sector partnership, was formed to respond to the challenges.
“To deliver a new vision for Altrincham, Altrincham Forward produced an action plan resulting in new investment, including comprehensive public realm works, a new hospital, transport interchange and a refurbished historic market house. It also set up landlords’ forums and established a calendar of events. Altrincham now has vacancy rates of 18%.”
The government-backed Great British High Street initiative was launched last year, with Wantage in Oxforshire taking home the Town Centre prize.
High Streets minister Marcus Jones said: “We had a record amount of high-quality entries to this year’s competition – testament to the pride local people have and brilliant work being done to boost Britain’s high streets.
“The local high street is the life and soul of many towns, villages and cities across the country and these awards are a great opportunity to not only celebrate those that are the best of the best, but also to help others learn their valuable tips for success.
“If you cherish the hard work going on in your local high street, then show your support and get voting.”
