Despite current uncertainties around the longer-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on London, it is undeniable that our town centres and high streets can play a pivotal role in recovery and resilience.

This NLA research paper explores new ways to create compact, liveable and sustainable neighbourhoods to build urban resilience. The research is supported by a showcase of projects that demonstrate how our high streets and town centres can integrate a new mix of uses, enhance public realm, improve infrastructure, and ultimately strengthen the capital’s polycentricity, advocating for a balanced recovery of London as a whole.

Here we present nine priorities for the economic and social resilience of London’s high streets and town centres.