More than ever a successful and vibrant town centre needs to be nurtured rather than just being expected to happen. Councils need to positively facilitate new uses where there is a saturation of retail, encourage independent retailers into the fray and ensure that the public realm is attractive and inviting.   Many local authorities have developed strong town centre strategies designed to ensure the success of their town centres in a world of changing shopping and eating trends.   This best practice needs to be shared to avoid ghost towns.