Placemaking Programme Report - Earlestown

Millington, Steven ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5143-3074 and Ball, Jean (2022) Placemaking Programme Report - Earlestown. Project Report. High Streets Task Force.

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Abstract

Earlestown and the High Streets Task Force (HSTF) began working together following an expert visit in May 21. Based on discussions with the council, the subsequent Unlocking Your Place Potential Report outlines how the Task Force can provide further support for Earlestown. It was agreed there is a sensible vision and masterplan to regenerate Earlestown, but it was recognised this may take several years to complete and bear fruit. The pressing challenge is the need to activate the town centre now. Consequently, the Taskforce recommended Earlestown begin a process of reinvention. This entails developing a programme of activities which will increase footfall and spend, through interventions to attract a wider range of people to visit more often, linger longer, spend more, and go home with positive stories to tell. This could include events, festivals, pop-up retail, more frequent and varied uses of the Market Place, reuse of vacant premises, and basic improvements to the appearance of the town centre. New activity might also trial new opening hours which will begin to adapt the offer to modern consumer behaviour and expectations. To help places tackle reinvention, the Taskforce offers the Placemaking Workshop developed and delivered by the IPM, which is designed to bring together key stakeholders to identify the challenges and opportunities for their high street and to agree short term and long-term priorities for its future sustainability.