Placemaking Programme Report - Barrow-in-Furness

Millington, Steven ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5143-3074 and Cunningham, Diane (2022) Placemaking Programme Report - Barrow-in-Furness. Project Report. High Streets Task Force.

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Abstract

Barrow and the High Streets Task Force (HSTF) began working together following an expert visit in October 2021. Based on discussions with the Council, the subsequent Unlocking Your Place Potential Report (UYPP) outlined how the Task Force could provide further support for Barrow. It was agreed there were solid development plans and funding applications in process to regenerate Barrow. The Expert Support which followed the UYPP Report recommended strengthening partnerships and developing a narrative on plans for the future. In 2022 Barrow secured funding to deliver its regeneration plans, however, these projects may take several years to complete. The pressing challenge is the need to activate the town centre now. Consequently, the Task Force recommended Barrow begin a process of reinvention. This entails developing a programme of placemaking activities intended to increase footfall and spend, through interventions to attract a wider range of residents or encourage existing town centre users to stay longer. This could include events, festivals, pop-up retail, reuse of vacant shops, and basic improvements to the appearance of the town centre. New activity might also trial new products or services which begin to diversify the local offer and adapt the centre to meet the needs of future users.