A TRIED and tested programme that encourages businesses to set up shop in vacant retail spaces is being brought to two North-East towns.

Darlington and Middlesbrough were selected to benefit from a high street regeneration programme that promises to create 100 new jobs within the town centre and increase footfall by ten percent.

Government-backed outreach group, Business in the Community, announced that the two towns would be supported by its Healthy High Streets regime, which will be rolled out over the next three years.

Darlington was selected as one of 33 new areas chosen for the scheme that has generated £17m worth of support and resources from corporate partners.

High street brands, including EE, Greggs and Marks & Spencer work alongside Business in the Community to provide expertise and skills needed to make a successful store.

Robin Foale, managing director of Santander Universities UK and chair of the Healthy High Streets programme, said: “Congratulations to Darlington on being chosen to be part of the Healthy High Streets programme.

“This is a great opportunity to work with the business partners and the local High Street Champions to transform your town and create a thriving, vibrant centre for the local community.”

One hundred towns are now supported by the Healthy High Streets programme that first launched in June 2014.

Business in the Community’s, Peter Donohoe, said: “One of the most powerful ways for business to make an impact in communities is by creating high streets that are vibrant places to live, work and do business.

“It has been heartening to see first-hand the practical difference that collaborative, business-led action can make on UK high streets over these past two years.

“While there is much to be proud of about our Healthy High Streets Programme we also know that there is more work to be done.”

Business in the Community joined the Government’s Future High Streets Forum, which supports the High Street Pledge to ensure town centres continue to grow.

Distinct Darlington manager, Alex Hirst, said: “We are absolutely delighted that Darlington has been selected as one of the Healthy High Street towns this year, their aims for the chosen towns closely matches what we are currently working to achieve.”