The Government has finally announced the 72 areas that will benefit from millions of pounds of funding as part of the effort to help high streets recover from the impact of the pandemic.

Last month, The MJ reported there was anger over delays to high street bid funding.

Local government secretary Robert Jenrick said that up to £830m from the Future High Streets Fund will go towards delivering local projects such as improvements to transport infrastructure, new homes and the transformation of underused spaces.

He said: ‘The year ahead will be a big one for the high street as it seeks to recover, adapt and evolve as a result of the pandemic.

‘Today's £830m investment from the Future High Streets Fund is one of many ways the Government is working to help our much-loved town centres get through this and prosper into the future.

‘The role of the high street has always evolved.

'We want to support that change and make sure that they are the beating heart of their local community – with high quality housing and leisure in addition to shops and restaurants.

‘This investment will help us build back better and make town centres a more attractive place to live, work and visit.'

Chancellor Rishi Sunak added: ‘The Future High Streets Fund will help areas bounce back through regeneration projects that level up opportunities and create jobs right across the country.'