Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, what steps he is taking to support business and trade in market towns.

Since 2010, we have helped create over 360 town teams, and given over £18 million to towns, funding successful initiatives such as ‘Love your Local Market’. We have increased business rate discounts for 300,000 businesses, strengthened the role of Business Improvement Districts, introduced new permitted development rights and are tackling aggressive parking enforcement.

The Government has provided advice and assistance to town centre partners, promoting trade and creating vibrant town centres. These include guidance on discretionary rate relief, Business Improvement Districts, digital high streets and guides that showcase successful local initiatives. We also developed the ‘Kick Start Your High Street’ action pack which contains practical guides and support for councils and local people.

The Great British High Street Awards, now in its second year, is currently open for entries. Winners across seven categories (London; City; Town centre; Market town; Coastal community; Local centre; Village) share a cash prize, but more importantly, receive mentoring and support such as free training to develop digital skills for local businesses. We have also included a Special Recognition category of awards this year, which will recognise towns who have become ‘Rising Stars’ in turning fortunes around, or in some cases even local people who have made an invaluable personal contribution to their local high streets.

The market town of Belper was the overall winner in the 2014 Competition.