Linlithgow MSP Fiona Hyslop welcomes inquiry report into declining town centres

Fiona is a member of the committee and participated in the Town Centre Inquiry.

The inquiry asked local businesses and organisations to identify the new realities of retail and e-commerce in Scotland and the resulting impact on town centres. One Linlithgow was among those who gave evidence to the committee, asking Fiona and the other members to consider the challenges of connecting the community to local businesses.

The report states that the planning system needs to be strengthened to ensure no new developments are unfairly competing with town centre provisions. Further to this, large retailers have left the high streets and are re-locating to out-of-town shopping parks, and our shopping habits are changing which has also been accelerated by the pandemic.

Fiona said: “This report is key into how we can move forward to support and develop our town centres and how we can help them thrive in these difficult times.

“Much like the work of One Linlithgow, the committee suggested that towns should have a long term, strategic vision for the future, informed by experiences and views from the community and local businesses, driven by those who live and work there.

“Our local retail businesses are vital to our local and national economy and it is clear that the sector is experiencing significant change. The report shows that many retailers, including independent retailers, operate a "multi-channel" model and more of Scotland's retailers are looking to diversify and embrace new channels for selling.

“The committee also recommended that it should be easier for councils to have a record of ownership of all buildings to pursue repair and occupation by absentee owners of deteriorating high street properties.

“While the Scottish Government has also committed £100 million to help businesses improve their digital skills, there is much to be done and the committee will seek regular progress updates.”