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Welsh councils must provide 'ambitious leadership' to revive high street

Local authorities in Wales have been urged to use their existing powers and resources to make town centres sustainable.

Local authorities in Wales have been urged to use their existing powers and resources to make town centres sustainable.

A new report from Wales' auditor general found that one in seven shops on Welsh high streets are empty due to past policy choices, changing consumer expectations, technological advances and COVID-19.

Auditor general Adrian Crompton stressed that local authorities were key due to their wide range of statutory powers, which can determine the shape and environment of town centres.

Mr Crompton said: 'National and local government need to deliver integrated solutions, make brave decisions and provide bold, ambitious leadership if we are to address the challenges facing our town centres.'

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Lessons for uncertainty

By Ann McGauran | 17 June 2025

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Spending Review 2025: Key takeaways for the sector

By Megan Tam | 13 June 2025

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Framing a new vision for Wales

By Steve Martin | 02 June 2025

An independent, cross-party working group of leaders and chief executives from councils across Wales has come together to try to develop a vision for the fut...

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Forging a new future

By Seb Lowe | 28 May 2025

GatenbySanderson’s Seb Lowe looks at what local government reorganisation means for talent within the sector.

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