The Great British High Street competition is back for a third year and it’s bigger and better, giving towns and cities the opportunity to win up to £10,000.

This year there are even more chances to win as they've expanded 2016’s competition to 10 categories, as well as the opportunity for 4 individuals to be named High Street Heroes.

From high streets packed with small, independent businesses to booming city centres with national retailers, this competition celebrates the hard work being done by communities across the country.

Anyone can enter their local high street with the simplified application form so shout about the hard work of your community and get those entries in.

Once the shortlist is announced the public vote will open, giving people the chance to choose their best loved high street.

Categories

There are new categories such as the Rising Star Award, which is looking for areas that are taking their first steps towards rejuvenating their high streets. 

GBHS are hunting for High Street Heroes - examples of local business owners and retail staff, market operators and traders, and young people that are working hard for their towns and high streets.

Prizes

As well as the cash prize, winners will also receive dedicated support and mentoring from industry experts which could range from one to one coaching to advice on digital marketing.

Internet giant, Google’s expert training taskforce will also provide winners of the Great British High Street Competition 2016 training on how to make the most of their digital skills.

The competition is designed to help revitalise high streets by promoting the great work that is being done and sharing good ideas across the country.

High streets are changing, and the Government is committed to helping local business communities adapt. This includes a £6.7 billion package of business rates support, which means that rates will be cut for 900,000 businesses – with 600,000 now paying none at all, sensible planning changes and action to rein in over-zealous parking practices.

Good Practice Guide

The winners and finalists in last year’s competition have revealed the secrets of their success, sharing tips on how to boost business, increase footfall and compete with online retailers, in our ‘good practice guide’.

From embracing the digital revolution of high speed broadband and customised mobile apps in York, to Newquay’s Halloween extravaganza, anyone looking to enter 2016’s competition can learn from the practical case studies and advice.

Previous Years

The first Great British High Street competition in 2014 saw 135 communities battle it out to be crowned the nation’s best, with Belper in Derbyshire emerging as the overall winner.

Last year’s awards received a record-breaking 230 entries and attracted over 200,000 public votes as Bishy Road in Yorkshire was named Britain’s best high street in 2015.

Judging

Alongside the public vote shortlisted towns will also be inspected by the Future High Streets Forum judging panel – made up of industry leaders from across retail, property and business.

The nominated High Street Heroes will be shortlisted and judged by an independent panel.

Find out more here