Interesting podcast highlighting the struggles of the high street retailer and what attracts the consumer to go there. It is apparent that the decline in Town Centres and high streets is down to high business rates, lack of business support, out of town retail, online shopping, accessibility and high rental costs. One thing which may improve the prospect of the revitilisation of town centres is the preference of the ever increasing number of retirement living providers to locate developments within easy reach of the high street and amenities. The majority of these will have less than 1:1 parking provision and therefore proximity to the high street will be a key requisite for location. Populating the high street during the day with a captive audience will bring a sense of community where coffee shops and cafes can thrive by day, as can small retail outlets, whilst pubs and restaurants can attract a wider audience at night. Council and government planning policy can encourage such development by reduction in planning charges and easing of other planning restrictions, as well as reduction of business rates for town centre businesses.