A WORKSHOP for anyone interested in keeping high streets alive and kicking in rural towns is being held later this month.

The workshop will address the multiple challenges facing rural high streets including recession, the growth of online shopping, out-of-town superstores and increasing business rents and rates.

The longer term future of the high street requires national intervention but there is a lot that can be locally to revitalise and sustain centres if resources across private, public and voluntary sectors are combined and an enterprising approach is adopted..

The Enterprising Towns Event, hosted by Gloucestershire Market Towns Forum, is a full day workshop open to all who aspire to create sustainable commercial centres that provide vital services for locals and visitors and make a positive contribution to the local economy and add social value.

The workshop is designed to bring together towns and larger villages from across Gloucestershire and surrounding areas to share problems, learn about proven, practical, implementable ideas and solutions and consider new initiatives.

The day will provide an opportunity for plenty of networking time both informally and during structured sessions.

Speakers will include Chris Wade, chief executive of Action for Market Towns, and Alison Eardley, policy manager.

Representatives from Bedminster's Town Team and Leamington's Business Improvement District will give delegates the chance to hear how these towns have already been successfully implementing a number of initiatives to revitalise and sustain their town centres.

The event takes place on Thursday 27th March 27 at GL3 Community Hub, Churchdown, Cheltenham Road East, Gloucester GL3 1HX.

For details contact Bob Watters on 07729 132563 or bobwatters@ymail.com