Creating a thriving, sustainable high street for all

We all want Sutton’s town centre to be a place for sustainable growth, where small businesses can thrive AND play their part in tackling climate change, which is why Sutton Council has launched the Green Enterprise Partnership this week.

Independent businesses are a vital part of our high streets - whether it’s a vegan cafe with great live music or a bike shop with a 120-year history. However, Covid lockdowns and a move to online shopping have made the high street an increasingly challenging trading environment. 

Sutton Council wants to help these smaller businesses to not just survive but thrive in this changing landscape, and we want to help them grow more sustainably and build a greener future for Sutton. Taking action on climate change is one of our priorities underpinning everything we do as a Council and I am proud that this initiative is now live.

We have partnered with Bioregional, Sutton Business Improvement District and Sound Lounge to launch the Green Enterprise Partnership, an exciting new project with places for 50 local businesses to join in the first phase. Through workshops, a 4-step accreditation programme and a network of like-minded local businesses and experts, we hope the project will help them grow their business and discover the financial and ethical benefits of moving towards a carbon neutral business model.

The partnership is just one of many ways we are boosting green growth in Sutton. Last week the Council announced proposals for the St Nicholas Centre. The proposals include opportunities for more green outdoor spaces which would help improve air quality, reduce noise and enhance biodiversity.

Online, next week’s Sutton Business Sessions will provide helpful information for business owners on topics including Taking Control of your Energy Bills and Reducing Energy Use.

I hope that by supporting our local businesses, we can cement Sutton town centre’s reputation as a wonderful place to shop, visit and work, and prove that being sustainable is great for business as well as the planet. 

Councillor Ruth Dombey

Leader of Sutton Council