THEIR PLAN OF ACTION

Replace business rates for retailers with a sales tax or an increase in VAT.

Introduce an online sales tax of 1 to 2 per cent that would supplement the existing business rates system.

‘Green taxes’ on online deliveries and packaging.

Fast-track compulsory purchase orders to allow councils to redevelop run down streets for other purposes, such as housing.

Public bodies should locate health, education, leisure, administrative offices and other services in town centres first.

Councils should test impact of free or subsidised parking for shoppers.

Stores should consult on extending opening hours into the evenings and focus on creating theatre and ‘experiences’.

Retailers planning to close a large ‘anchor’ store should consider cutting the size and partly converting it to housing.