CHRISTMAS shoppers who walk to high streets could be spending more than those who drive there according to a newly commissioned report.

Living Streets, a charity that promotes ‘everyday walking,’ states that shoppers on foot can spend up to six times more than those who arrive by car, and that people value walkable destinations.

When streets are regenerated to boost walking, there is a corresponding impact on turnover, property values and rental yields. For well-designed projects, sales can increase by 30 per cent or more when footfall is boosted.

Stuart Hay, of Living Streets said, ‘For too long, the debate has focused solely on parking, instead of getting people out of their cars to support local businesses.

‘For town centres to succeed we need high streets which are safe and attractive for walking, with 20mph zones and cleaner air. With less traffic, people will be encouraged to visit and enjoy their local high street more often.’

The Pedestrian Pound confirms that retail alone is not enough to save our high streets in the internet age. The big challenge for high streets is the pace of digital change. In 2017, 77 per cent of adults bought goods or services online compared to 53 per cent in 2008.

However, high streets and town centres that are walkable, accessible and offer a diverse range of retail, culinary and cultural activities have a bright future. The more ambitious the investment, the bigger the boost in footfall.

Dr Rachel Lee, policy and research coordinator of Living Streets said, ‘High streets need to offer people more than what they can get online.

‘It needs to be about the experience, a place where people like to get together, socialise and feel part of a community. When people enjoy a place, they stay longer and spend more.

‘Not only does this boost trade and help revive our high streets but by encouraging people to walk more we also bolster our national economy by improving public health and reducing congestion and pollution.’