The last couple of weeks have been significant for Department in Ryde, as the revitalised former department store captures local and national attention.
Last week, the scaffolding came down, revealing the stunning restoration of the front of this iconic building. Its grand shop windows played a starring role in the town’s popular Merry and Bright Festival of Light event, adding a touch of festive magic to Ryde’s high street.
A National example of community innovation
This week, Department featured as one of four case studies in a new report by think-do tank, Power to Change. Titled Department Stories: How communities are reimagining a national institution, the report highlights how community-led initiatives are transforming former department stores into vibrant hubs of activity.
According to the report, these expansive, centrally located spaces are uniquely suited for community use. With 31% of people expressing frustration over the lack of variety on high streets, these projects are proving essential in reshaping local town centres.
Breathing life into High Streets
Community projects like Department are driving a fresh vision for the high street by meeting diverse local needs. These spaces provide unique experiences that attract footfall, create opportunities and foster a sense of pride in the area.
Each case study featured in the report demonstrates how communities are tackling the issue of vacant spaces. These efforts replace retail-focused purposes with mixed-use, experience-led offerings that reflect local priorities.
However, for such initiatives to thrive, the report argues, a supportive policy framework is essential. It calls on the government to adopt measures that make it easier for communities to take ownership of and repurpose these spaces.
A creative vision for Ryde
In Ryde, the transformation of Department has been led by arts organisation Shademakers UK. Sharon George of Shademakers described the project’s bold vision. She said,
“Instead of another empty shop on the high street, we wanted to bring our experience of transforming communities with cultural events and bring colour to the town centre in a permanent creative building with art at its heart.
“Department is a place that encourages the whole town to dream big. We wanted to make it a place that the whole town can be proud of.”
A model for the future
Following a major refurbishment designed with Turner Works, the space will serve as a multipurpose hub for locals and visitors to engage with arts and culture.
The project embraces over 300 years of creativity and craftsmanship, breathing new life into the former Packs department store.
Policy recommendations to support communities
The report highlights significant challenges in repurposing department store spaces, including the costs of repairs, accessibility upgrades, and navigating complex lease conditions. It calls on the government to establish initiatives like a Civic High Streets Accelerator to channel regeneration funding towards community-led projects.
Further recommendations include reforming business rates to recognise community businesses as a distinct asset class, expanding the Community Ownership Fund to £1 billion, and developing a comprehensive Community Asset Transfer strategy.
By adopting these measures, the report argues, the government can empower communities to transform high streets into spaces that reflect and serve local needs, creating a more vibrant and inclusive future for towns like Ryde.
You can watch the recording below of an hour long session with Power to Change, which took place earlier this week.
