Mark Walker comments in Green Street News: Could healthcare revive the heartbeat of our high streets?

We know that the high street has been struggling, with many units now sitting empty. We also know that there’s been a shortage of healthcare facilities. So, asks our MEP director Mark Walker in Green Street News, why not repurpose more vacant units for healthcare centres that benefit the long-term health of our communities?

There is, he suggests, a symbiotic relationship between these spaces. For example, after a GP appointment, someone might then pop into the coffee shop next door. Mark argues that this “not only bolsters local businesses, but also strengthens the economic fabric of a place, allowing for a simplified, multi-purpose trip. It’s a win-win for everyone involved”.

In the article, he explores the current roadblocks to rolling this out across UK high streets, including availability of space and securing adequate funding.

Mark also explores the challenges posed by Health Technical Memoranda (HTMs), strict design guidelines that healthcare facilities must meet.

He points out that “while essential for high-quality spaces and bulky equipment, less critical community facilities might not need to adhere to the same standards as major trauma hospitals. A more pragmatic approach with fit-for-purpose engineering principles is needed”.

He highlights the data: there’s an estimated 1.6 million square metres of vacant space in UK shopping centres, which could be an opportunity to ‘lift and shift’ 1 million square metres of outpatient-based services.

Mark adds:

Green Street News subscribers can read the full article here.