Scottish Chambers of Commerce Welcome Focus on High Streets

The Scottish Chambers of Commerce have welcomed the publication of Mary Portas's report on high streets, and the ensuing media and political debate.

Liz Cameron, Scottish Chambers of Commerce Chief Executive, commented:

'Chambers of Commerce know better than most how important our high streets are to our towns and communities. The businesses that make up Chambers of commerce memberships across Scotland are the businesses that are at the heart of communities; they see each day the problems that arise from dying high streets.

'We therefore welcome the attention that this report draws to the issues our members tackle on a daily basis. While most of the recommendation apply mainly to England, they and the background commentary provide important food for thought for Scottish policy makers.

'Scottish Chambers of Commerce have identified town centre regeneration as a key policy priority for 2012. We are establishing an expert group of business leaders with direct experience of the issues to generate practical solutions to improve our communities, recognising the key role that local businesses play in creating safe, pleasant, active and vibrant high streets in Scotland's towns.'