2011/2012

Following a long campaign by STPG for the revitalisation of Scotland’s Towns, the group call for practical action – the creation of Scotland’s Towns Partnership (STP).

2012

STP is legally formed as Scotland’s Towns Ltd and a Board of Directors and secretariat appointed. With support from the Challenge Fund and commercial interests, STP takes over the reins from BIDs Scotland, hosting the Annual Scotland’s Towns Conference - timed to contribute to the Scottish Government’s Town Centre Review. STP is launched.

Forming a partnership with Action for Market Towns, a joint bid secures funding for a unique, new and sustainable means of measuring and evaluating towns – ‘Benchmarking+’. A demonstration project is carried out in Barrhead, with the additional support of East Renfrewshire Council.

2013

Memberships, strategic partnerships and links with Scottish Government grow. STP strengthens its information and communications base; hosts two learning events; and develops its Toolkit providing access to capacity building supports; addressing safety, funding, digital marketing, recruitment and more. Benchmark toolkit promoted on 4th November at the Lighthouse to Learning Network, and a regular Funding Newsletter is distributed to members. The ‘Benchmarking+’ demonstration project launches and the service is available to all.

Policy link with CSPP STPG ensures ongoing contribution to the TCR process.

STP reconstitutes the Scottish Parliamentary Cross Party Group on Towns and Town Centres, with Convener Margaret McCulloch MSP. STP is adviser and Secretary to the Group, coordinating meetings and encouraging participation.

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