THERE are more than 5,000 High Streets in the UK. It’s our most common street name.

They matter and they’re certainly more than just a place to shop. They’re the heart of local communities – providing jobs and essential services.

But many of them are in trouble.

Across the UK, 12% of shops are vacant. In central Liverpool, it’s worse – one in six shops are empty, that’s 17%.

This isn’t just about the poor state of the economy.

Often that’s worsening the decline, but some high streets have been struggling for years with problems that are more fundamental than just recession.

Mounting property costs, parking and access difficulties, the appeal of quality regional shopping centres, customer demand for a convenient, welcoming and safe shopping environment and the growth of online retail have all had an impact.

But some are fighting back. The billion-pound Liverpool One project is a massive investment in keeping shoppers coming to the city.

It’s won numerous awards for its high-quality build, and is nearly fully occupied despite the tough economic conditions.

Less dramatic, but with the same aim, in Chester shops were suffering as customer numbers dropped off later in the afternoon.

After negotiations with the council, it was agreed two major car parks would be made “free after three”.

Shopper numbers went up and the idea’s been copied elsewhere.

Critically, town centres are assets which need to be managed.

They need a careful programme of economic monitoring. Curing ill health is always going to be more achievable than reviving the dead.

We must deter all forms of retail crime and anti-social behaviour. Damaged property needs to be restored quickly.

Then there are costs. High streets need central government backing – no new property and business rate burdens and a responsible and inclusive approach from local authorities to the money they raise and spend. They must get the maximum long-term benefit out of every pound they take from businesses.

Great high streets need to be actively planned and nurtured by local authorities with retailers, other businesses and residents. Good practice needs to become standard practice.