The British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) has concerns that the race for some local councils to become net zero could have a detrimental impact on independent shops.

Bira is committed to helping its members become more sustainable. However, it also highlights some moves by local authorities could reduce accessibility to the high street.

Measures include high street pedestrianisation as well as axing car parking spaces. Case studies have been identified in Harrogate, Shaftesbury and Perth in Scotland, amongst others.

Commenting is Andrew Goodacre, Bira’s CEO.

“Bira supports a more environmentally friendly high street and is helping members to become sustainable retailers. However, we are seeing a race to ‘net zero’ in some local authorities. Our fears are that retail is not being considered with plans being developed that may be detrimental to the high streets.

“There is a huge drive to provide cycle paths and pedestrianised areas. Whilst this may reflect current trends, it does not necessarily result in more shoppers in the shops if accessibility is reduced because of these plans.

“As part of the Covid restrictions we experienced traffic reduction schemes and ad hoc pedestrianisation; all resulting in less parking and less access to the high streets.

“On the one side, such plans may encourage people to come to town for a coffee or a bite to eat. But it is difficult to carry shopping home on a bike. We need planners to talk to retailers and share ideas for reducing carbon whilst retaining use of the high streets for everyone.”

For further information on Bira, please click here.