London's retail centres have faced some significant challenges over recent years, with the recession leading to a rise in vacant shops, and competition from the Internet, as well as out-of-town retail parks, drawing many retailers from the high street. However, with Boris' focus on outer London, the launch of PPS4, and news that major landowners are again kick-starting their retail development, it appears that retail development is again on the up and has a vital role to play in the health and vitality of London's town centres.

This half-day conference will examine the policy surrounding retail development in the capital, look at the role that retail has to play in the regeneration of London's towns, and give an insight into the way that developers, planners and London BIDS are redefining London’s town centres to attract retail investment.