Mary Portas warns high streets could 'disappear forever'

Retail expert Mary Portas has set out her vision for Britain's high streets, warning that "after many years of erosion, neglect and mismanagement" they will "disappear forever" unless urgent action is taken.

She has recommended a range of planning policy incentives along with a new tax on car parks in out-of-town malls, as well as free parking in town centres to lure shoppers back to the high street.

The long-awaited review from Portas, known for her TV series Mary Queen of Shops and Mary Queen of Frocks, sets out 28 recommendations to breathe new life into Britain's ailing high streets. She wants to get town centres running like businesses, by strengthening the management of high streets through new "town teams" and encouraging new markets. She proposed an annual national market day where budding entrepreneurs can try their hand at running a retail business. "Why not rent out tables for a tenner and get everyone involved?" Marks & Spencer started as a market stall.       Read More