A new document, ‘Towns and the 2026 Scottish Parliamentary Election’ sets out a clear and ambitious economic, social and environmental asks of party leaders to set out in their manifestos and if they lead the next Scottish Government.

Scotland’s Towns Partnership, the organisation which champions Scotland’s towns centres, is calling for the national Town Centre First approach to development policy to be strengthened, targeting action which will deliver greater levels of town centre living, drive community wealth building and reduce child poverty while supporting local businesses.

Other asks include:

• Further investment in the STP-led Scotland Loves Local programme to drive support for local businesses.
• Reviewing the regulations which govern Scotland’s Improvement Districts to strengthen the positive part that they play in place-making.
• Working with local authorities to identify and remove barriers to development.

STP has outlined its asks by writing to all political party leaders and economy portfolio holders.

Kimberley Guthrie, chief officer of Scotland’s Towns Partnership, said: “Towns are where lives are lived. They sit at the heart of our communities and local economies, serving not only as centres of connection and opportunity but also as vital national assets. Towns help to safeguard our rich heritage and help to shape a more sustainable future. Economically resilient, socially vibrant, and environmentally responsible, towns represent some of the most sustainable places we have to live, work, and thrive.

“Our manifesto is set out to ensure that towns are recognised as central to Scotland’s future and that the next Scottish Government is equipped with the right tools, funding and policy focus to help them thrive. We are committed to working with all politicians and organisations to continue to drive positive change.”

Professor Leigh Sparks, chair of Scotland’s Towns Partnership, said: “Towns are the social, economic, cultural and historical heart of our country, but have been battered and bruised by change over the last 60 years.

“The Scottish Parliament election presents a crucial opportunity to build on the strong progress already made in Scotland through cross-party support for towns.

“Our manifesto sets out how we can further enhance towns at the heart of policy and decision making, empower local communities, build on the assets all towns possess, tackle national priorities and support businesses to create thriving places to live, work and visit.”