The GBHighSt Awards 2016 – Banbury town centre

Efforts to boost Banbury town centre will go under the spotlight as part of a search for the best examples of work to stimulate Britain’s high streets.

Cherwell District Council’s economic development team has entered Banbury for the Large Market Town category of the Great British High Street Awards. The winners will be announced this December.

The submission recognises partnership work between businesses, councils, community groups and individuals. These collaborators work on everything from filling empty shops to encouraging investment and hosting events such as the Old Town Parties, The Night Market and GeekCon.

Cllr Lynn Pratt, Cherwell’s lead member for estates and the economy, said: “Cherwell District Council works to support businesses and community groups to make Banbury town centre a great place to live, work and socialise.

“We couldn’t do this without the support of partners in the community, the town council and organisations such as the Banbury Old Town Association.

“Because the general public plays such a big part in determining the outcome of this prize, I am calling on the town’s residents to back our application and be ready to vote for Banbury if we are shortlisted.

“The awards are not only about getting recognition for those who work so hard to make Banbury town centre the best it can be. They are also a superb opportunity to learn from others’ ideas and share our own success stories with others.”

Shortlisting begins at the end of the month and the shortlist is announced in mid-October. If Banbury is shortlisted it will enter a month-long judging period during which the general public and judges will be able to have their say on which towns should win the different categories.

If successful, Banbury will win a share of a cash prize, and dedicated support and mentoring from industry experts. This would range from one-to-one coaching to advice on digital marketing.

The winners of Great British High Street Awards will be announced in December