NORTHWICH town centre is to receive support for some of the UK’s biggest retail brands as part of a high street regeneration programme.

Business in the Community’s Healthy High Streets programme aims to increase footfall by 10 per cent, reduce the number of vacant properties by 20 per cent and stimulate the creation of new jobs in 100 towns over three years.

The programme launched in 2014, and is backed by some of the UK’s biggest high street brands - Boots UK, EE, Exterion Media, Greggs, Marks and Spencer and Santander and new partner Wilko.

Northwich is one of 33 new High Streets selected for the programme across the UK, bringing the total number of participating High Streets to the programme target of 100 towns.

It will receive a bespoke package of support, including access to skills and expertise, and dedicated High Street Champions from supporting businesses who will work together with the local partnership team, local authority and relevant local partners to devise an action plan to address the challenges facing the town.

Northwich BID Manager Jane Hough is delighted the town has been accepted onto the programme.

“I’m absolutely thrilled Northwich has been accepted onto the initiative, and the team at the BID can’t wait to lead on its delivery on behalf of the town,” she said.

“Healthy High Streets will really help galvanise and transform Northwich further over the coming year, and when you look at the developments nearing completion too you can’t help but feel excited about the future of the town.”

The impact results for the three-year programme will be announced in July 2017.

Over the last year of the programme, it has brought support and resources worth £17 million from its corporate partners into 67 UK high streets.

Robin Foale, chairman of the Healthy High Streets programme said: “Congratulations to Northwich on being chosen to be part of the Healthy High Streets programme.

“This is a great opportunity to work with the business partners and the local High Street Champions to transform your town and create a thriving, vibrant centre for the local community.”