Preston Benson is founder and CEO of Really Local Group. After moving to London in 2005, Preston recognised a need to diversify high streets and create unique local arts and community venues. Following a career in finance, he started Really Local Group in 2016, in order to create and restore cultural infrastructure through the regeneration of the UK’s high streets. The company has transformed disused locations and now runs them as: Catford Mews, Ealing Project, Peckham Levels, Reading Biscuit Factory and Sidcup Storyteller. Each of the venues has a bespoke cultural offer, including cinema at their heart, along with live entertainment spaces, a community-based events programme, workspace, full-service bars and cafes stocking local brands, and food markets, where possible. The company provides inclusive and affordable venues for communities, uniquely designed to reflect their locality and act as a community hub. Preston and his team are working on a pipeline of sites that will be delivered over the next few years in places such as Bermondsey, Canning Town and Sutton.