iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

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Record Store Day UK @recordstoredayuk.bsky.social · 18/04/2026

The day is vinyl-ly here! Happy Record Store Day to indie record shops and record lovers everywhere 😍 Whether you're in the queue, on the way to your local shop or planning to celebrate later, we hope you have the 👏 BEST 👏 day #RSD26

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Scenic Rail Britain @scenicrailbritain.bsky.social · 17/04/2026

From everyday commutes to extraordinary destinations, public transport connects us all - and tourism and leisure journeys are even greater when they're good for people and planet 🌍 Get inspired for your next #DaysOutByRail this #WorldPublicTransportDay 🗺️ scenicrailbritain.com 📸Devon & Cornwall CRP

Photo courtesy of Devon & Cornwall Rail Partnership showing a Great Western Railway train travelling along a viaduct on the Atlantic Coast Line on a sunny day.

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Record Store Day UK @recordstoredayuk.bsky.social · 16/04/2026

The day is almost here !⏰ We're celebrating with our final mix - from the beautifully brooding to head-banging classics 🧡 Only available at your local indie record shop this Saturday, 18th April! #RSD26

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Social Investment Scotland @socinvestscot.bsky.social · 15/04/2026

Delighted to support Peebles Community Trust to buy the former Bank of Scotland building on Peebles High Street, securing it as the new home for its Re‑Use Hub. Boosting visibility, cutting landfill and keeping income local. Huge congrats to the team! Read the full story here: buff.ly/KKa1F4s

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Record Store Day UK @recordstoredayuk.bsky.social · 14/04/2026

There ain't no party like an #RSD26 party 🕺 Events are taking place all over the UK & Ireland this weekend to commemorate #RSD26. Celebrate the culture of indie record shops everywhere with your local record shop this Saturday 🧡 bit.ly/47LkS71

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Record Store Day UK @recordstoredayuk.bsky.social · 13/04/2026

The monday blues don't exist on #RSD26 week! Indie record shops everywhere are busy getting ready for this Saturday 18th April 📅✨ Find your closest participating record shop now: bit.ly/4aWUW8Y 📸 @assaiglasgow.bsky.social Head Records, Leamington Spa @justdroppedin.bsky.social JM Records, Exeter

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The Vacant Shops Academy @vacantshopsacademy.bsky.social · 11/04/2026

Latest in our new #highstreet openings series. This from Dovercourt… “🌟 TOMORROW🌟 Just ONE day to go until I open the doors to my new High Street shop 💛🩷💙 ⏰ Open from 12pm to 4pm ⏰ Pop in say hello 👋 Come and have a nose 👃 Purchase something if you wish 😉 I can’t wait to see what you all think 🩷🖤

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Leigh Sparks @sparksstirling.bsky.social · 10/04/2026

ICYMI: I had a chat with Neil Munday on the Stirling Business Podcast in the King Street Studios the other week. Covered the origins of my interests in retail and place, 40 odd years in Stirling and the increased importance of independent eco-systems for towns. stirlingretail.com/2026/04/09/t...

stirlingretail.com

The Stirling Business Podcast: Why Independent Businesses and Smarter Policy can Save our High Streets

Towards the end of February, at his invitation, I sat down with Neil Munday, Managing Director of the award-winning King Street Aparthotel and Working Flexispaces in Stirling and the Stirling Busin…

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The Grocer @thegrocer.bsky.social · 30/03/2026

Starbucks to open 500 new stores across the UK over the next five years Despite widening losses and a “tougher market”

thegrocer.co.uk

Starbucks to open 500 more UK sites despite ‘tougher market’

Starbucks UK saw operating losses widen to £29.8m in 2025

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Record Store Day UK @recordstoredayuk.bsky.social · 25/03/2026

Indie record shops are busy getting ready for their biggest party of the year #RSD26🥳 Find out what's happening near you on 18.04 via our store locator and events page🔗 bit.ly/4bweP8z Good Vibes, Leith Slide Record Shop, Bedford, @monorailmusic.bsky.social @fiveriserecords.bsky.social

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Record Store Day UK @recordstoredayuk.bsky.social · 24/03/2026

Look what's landed! ☄️ The April 2026 issue of Record Collector features a special 20 page tell-all about RSD, including exclusive interviews with the people who helped to make it happen. Don't miss this bumper issue, now available from your local indie record shop & magazine stands 💿#RSD26

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Leigh Sparks @sparksstirling.bsky.social · 17/03/2026

The Stirling Business Awards 2026 stirlingretail.com/2026/03/17/t... My latest post about the Stirling Business Awards, the award for Made in Stirling and a shout out to all the winners and the organisers.

stirlingretail.com

The Stirling Business Awards 2026

I probably need to start with a couple of declarations. Last year the Stirling Business Awards team presented me with a Lifetime Achievement Award. Very nice, undeserved,…

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The Architectural Heritage Fund @archhfund.org.uk · 12/03/2026

🔔 Funding news! We have awarded a grant through the #HeritageRevivalFund, made possible by @dcmsgovuk.bsky.social & Historic England, to support plans to convert the upper floors of a former bank in Callington, Cornwall, into affordable housing for young adults. ⬇️ ahfund.org.uk/what-we-do/i...

Young people outside The Vault Youth Centre, which is based in a former bank building in Callington, Cornwall. Credit: Callington Youth Project Group.

The exterior of the upper floors of The Vault Youth Centre. Credit: Callington Youth Project Group.

The exterior of The Vault Youth Centre. Credit: Callington Youth Project Group.

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Record Store Day UK @recordstoredayuk.bsky.social · 05/03/2026

There's not long to go now! Be sure to get in touch with your local indie record shop to let them know what's on your #RSD26 wishlist 📋 Want to know more about how RSD works? Read our full FAQs bit.ly/3OO9QHq 📸: @hundredrecords.bsky.social

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The Architectural Heritage Fund @archhfund.org.uk · 05/03/2026

Thanks to Age Concern Southend for welcoming us to The Haven Community Hub last month to see the vital services it provides. Our visit follows the fantastic news that the charity has successfully secured ownership of the iconic former department store. 🎉 Find out more: ahfund.org.uk/what-we-do/i...

The exterior of The Haven Community Hub.

The Havens and Age Concern logos on the front window of the building.

People playing table tennis under the skylight inside The Haven Community Hub. Credit: Age Concern Southend.

An exercise class at The Haven Community Hub. Credit: Age Concern Southend.

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The Vacant Shops Academy @vacantshopsacademy.bsky.social · 02/03/2026

Big fan of highstreet businesses running classes & workshops as an extra string to their bow…?: “Look at the joyful gathering!!! This is the lovely group of ladies that attended the St. David’s Day paper collage class last evening at The Painted Lady Tattoo Parlour, Tredegar with The Crafty Beggar.”

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The Vacant Shops Academy @vacantshopsacademy.bsky.social · 02/03/2026

Another new opening, this in Ammanford: “A HUGE thank you to all our amazing customers for making opening day such a success. The atmosphere was incredible and we hope you enjoyed the singers and bands as much as we did! We’re truly grateful for the support. A fantastic night from start to finish.”

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Community Rail Network @communityrail.bsky.social · 21/02/2026

It's the start of #WalesWeek, a celebration of all things Wales. There's no better way than train to explore this beautiful country, home to some of the most scenic routes in the world 🛤️ Ditch the car and check out Scenic Rail Britain's suggestions.

scenicrailbritain.com

Wales & Borders - Scenic Rail Britain

Have an epic adventure as you experience travelling by train through the wonderful landscapes of Wales and Borders.

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The Vacant Shops Academy @vacantshopsacademy.bsky.social · 21/02/2026

“Absolutely amazing.” “Brilliant.” “Awesome work”. 800+ reactions, 80+ comments in just 4 hours (and counting), the vast majority of them variations on those above. It’s the latest mural by the team we’re lucky to work with on our tackling highstreet vacancy project in Tredegar. This one in Blaina…

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Scenic Rail Britain @scenicrailbritain.bsky.social · 13/02/2026

Exploring by train should be easy for everyone. #CommunityRail partnerships & station volunteers across Britain are helping make days out more accessible and welcoming for all, opening up amazing places to more people. Find out more: scenicrailbritain.com/campaigns/ac... #AccessibleAdventures

Train travelling in front of impressive Ely Cathedral along the Hereward Line - Photo: Geraint Hughes

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Record Store Day UK @recordstoredayuk.bsky.social · 18/02/2026

It's officially 2 months until #RSD26 and banners have begun popping up in indie record shops all over the UK and Ireland...the countdown is ON ⏰ 📸 @asliceofvinyl.bsky.social @eelpierecords.bsky.social Hey Joe Music and Coffee @assaiedinburgh.bsky.social

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Community Rail Network @communityrail.bsky.social · 18/02/2026

Rail news 📢 It's great to see this government commitment to boosting railways across Wales. Investment in new stations and better services means job creation, connected communities, and more people feeling empowered to use rail to access the opportunities they want. www.gov.uk/government/n...

gov.uk

Prime Minister announces seven new stations and major rail funding commitment

A generational UK Government commitment to modernise Welsh rail is set to support 12,000 jobs across Wales.

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The Vacant Shops Academy @vacantshopsacademy.bsky.social · 17/02/2026

To take a short break from reflecting independent shop and venue openings in some of the places we’re supporting on tackling #highstreet vacancy, to share what is sure to be a very welcome and high profile brand store opening…!

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The Architectural Heritage Fund @archhfund.org.uk · 17/02/2026

From a derelict former wool store to a bustling childcare facility ‘busy with little feet running around it’ – The Woolstore has been given a new lease of life that is ‘helping to shape the little minds of Caledon and surrounding areas.’ #AHF50 Read more: ⬇️ ahfund.org.uk/anniversary/...

The exterior of The Woolstore before. Credit: Caledon Regeneration Partnership.

The exterior of The Woolstore after. Credit: Mark Hackett.

The interior of the restored Woolstore. Credit: Mark Hackett.

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andyburnham.bsky.social @andyburnham.bsky.social · 15/02/2026

So good to see this recognition of what’s happening in GM.👇🏻 It’s based on 🐝 setting high, long-term ambitions & sticking to them 🐝 strong partnership between public, private and other sectors 🐝 collaborative ‘place-first’ politics And we’re only getting started! 💪🏻

bbc.co.uk

Could Manchester be a model for the UK to kickstart growth?

With an annual growth rate of 3.1%, Manchester's economy has performed twice as well as that of the UK as a whole.

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The Vacant Shops Academy @vacantshopsacademy.bsky.social · 15/02/2026

And another on the way to Stirling… “Janna’s Bakery will always be home. But sometimes home grows. Tomorrow we softly open the doors to Tava Turkish Cafe Restaurant — our new ‘little baby’ across the street. We ask our customers to be patient with us as we are slowly but surely transitioning.” ❤️

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The Vacant Shops Academy @vacantshopsacademy.bsky.social · 14/02/2026

And on the subject of newly-opened bakeries, but this time from Llanelli… “🌾 It’s been a long time coming but we’re very happy to be finally opening and sharing Y Levens Bakery with you all! 🤗 🥰 Thankyou everyone for your support. See you soon! 😃

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The Vacant Shops Academy @vacantshopsacademy.bsky.social · 14/02/2026

…and as #highstreet 2026 is more than retail, here’s another new opening: “Join us for an extra special community open day. “Located in the centre of Grimsby, Horizon will be a safe, inclusive and vibrant space, providing 20+ fun and engaging activities every session for thousands of young people.”

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The Vacant Shops Academy @vacantshopsacademy.bsky.social · 14/02/2026

Next on our new openings list is HBW, Stirling: “The Bakery will open from 9am until 3pm or sell out. We've made absolutely heaps - bread, pastries, buns, doughnuts, cakes, coffees and two very sleepy bakers. See you at 50 Barnton Street for those Valentine sweet treats, can't wait to see you all ❤️

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The Bookseller @thebookseller.com · 13/02/2026

Waterstones is opening a new bookstore in Durham at the end of March, followed by a second shop in the market town of Gainsborough in Lincolnshire which will open its doors in time for the Easter holidays 👇 #BookSky

ebx.sh

Waterstones opens new bookstores in Gainsborough and Durham

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Community Rail Network @communityrail.bsky.social · 13/02/2026

In case you missed it 👀 Six new tour dates and destinations have been announced for 'Inspiration', the #Railway200 exhibition train - including Lewes, Bristol and Newquay 🚂 Book your tickets to access the amazing stories and interactive fun on board 🎟️

railway200.co.uk

Welcome to Inspiration

Discover the past, present and future of railways on our incredible exhibition train, Inspiration, touring Britain from 27 June 2025

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The Architectural Heritage Fund @archhfund.org.uk · 12/02/2026

The Grade II-listed West Haven Maltings and Migar House in Grimsby have been transformed into Horizon Youth Zone. The landmark site will officially open its doors to welcome in & support children and young people across North East Lincolnshire this Saturday! 🎉 More: ⬇️ ahfund.org.uk/what-we-do/i...

Horizon Youth Zone entrance. Credit: Horizon Youth Zone.

Aerial shot of Horizon Youth Zone exterior. Credit: Horizon Youth Zone.

The climbing wall at Horizon Youth Zone. Credit: Horizon Youth Zone.

The 3G kick pitch at Horizon Youth Zone. Credit: Horizon Youth Zone.

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The Architectural Heritage Fund @archhfund.org.uk · 11/02/2026

🚨 Job alert! Following the recent announcement of significant new investment, we are seeking an England Development Manager (Heritage Revival Fund) to co‑lead our core grants and advisory programme across England. Find more details and a full job description: ⬇️ ahfund.org.uk/what-we-do/i...

A site visit to St John's Church, Great Yarmouth, which recently received a Heritage Revival Fund Capital Grant.

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The Architectural Heritage Fund @archhfund.org.uk · 11/02/2026

📣 Funding news! We are pleased to announce that we have awarded new Project Viability Grants to support two projects bringing historic buildings in Caernarfon back into full, sustainable use for the benefit of their respective communities. Read more: 👇 ahfund.org.uk/what-we-do/i...

The exterior of Oriel Pendeitch. Credit: Galeri Caernarfon.

The exterior of the Caffi and flats above at 21-23 Y Maes, the base of GISDA. Credit: GISDA.

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Leigh Sparks @sparksstirling.bsky.social · 10/02/2026

ICYMI: Last week @scotlandstowns.bsky.social launched its Scottish Election manifesto. Building on a sound policy framework it focuses on Town Centre First, Scotland Loves Local, BIDs and making town centres easier places in which to live, work, play & operate stirlingretail.com/2026/02/09/s...

stirlingretail.com

Scotland’s Towns Partnership launches manifesto ahead of 2026 Scottish Parliament Elections

I spent last Thursday at the Scottish Parliament helping with the launch of Scotland’s Towns Partnership Manifesto for Towns ahead of the upcoming elections. Rather than write my own piece I …

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The Vacant Shops Academy @vacantshopsacademy.bsky.social · 09/02/2026

Another indie add to Stirling City Centre. This by HBW Coffee: “I'm really excited to let you know that our bakery at 50 Barnton Street is opening on Saturday 14th February and Sunday 15th. So if you'd like to join us for a pastry and coffee, a loaf or to say hello, we'll be here and ready for you.”

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The Vacant Shops Academy @vacantshopsacademy.bsky.social · 06/02/2026

Looking ahead to the weekend… Here’s the latest in our series about new indie additions in town centres we’re working with on tackling #highstreet vacancy… The Valleys Yarnhouse in Abertillery: “We are looking forward to welcoming everyone tomorrow as our doors open at 10am.”

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The Vacant Shops Academy @vacantshopsacademy.bsky.social · 06/02/2026

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The Vacant Shops Academy @vacantshopsacademy.bsky.social · 03/02/2026

Continuing to highlight new openings in town centres we’re working with… Opening soon in Abertillery: “The Valleys Yarnshop is a yarn-store, community space and knitting resource within the Welsh Valleys - a celebration of the hands, hearts and heritage that have long shaped the craft of knitting.”

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Heather Tweed @heathertweed.bsky.social · 02/02/2026

An interesting report on the role of bookshops in the community. Focused on Wales but can equally apply to England, Wales, Ireland 📚📚📚🌞 www.booksellers.org.uk/getattachmen...

booksellers.org.uk

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The Vacant Shops Academy @vacantshopsacademy.bsky.social · 02/02/2026

New to Dunfermline High Street. This is Twice Told Tales, second-hand bookshop & cafe: “We have been absolutely blown away by the response we've had. Thank you so much to everyone who's visited and for all the encouraging comments. It has far exceeded our wildest expectations.” Via Dunfermline Press

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Matthew Mckeague @memckeague.bsky.social · 31/01/2026

'Many of these new groups want their communities to own, manage and profit from enterprises far larger than the pubs and post offices once associated with community control. They want to take on the town.' > nice piece on the rise of #communityownership www.ft.com/content/a604....

ft.com

Power to the parish: can community ownership successfully scale up?

The UK government has hopes of doubling the size of the co-operative sector, evolving the model beyond post offices and pubs to brownfield sites and storied estates

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The Vacant Shops Academy @vacantshopsacademy.bsky.social · 28/01/2026

Latest new opening from locations we’re supporting on tackling #highstreet vacancy. “Thank you for a fantastic first day at our Honey Bea Art Gallery! We are so grateful for all the wonderful customers who purchased candles, and for everyone who popped in just to say hello and welcome us so warmly.”

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The Vacant Shops Academy @vacantshopsacademy.bsky.social · 28/01/2026

Let’s get places to try halve their headline vacancy rate and drop the long-stuck national empties percent into single figures. Seeing the government is planning to publish a ‘High Streets Strategy’ later this year, I thought to re-table the top item on my tackling #highstreet vacancy ‘manifesto’…

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Leigh Sparks @sparksstirling.bsky.social · 27/01/2026

stirlingretail.com/2026/01/26/r... ICYMI: Our post from yesterday (26/01). The second of a two part pair. This by @vacantshopsacademy.bsky.social on proactive and practical steps to tackle vacancy in our high streets.

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