Landlords will be forced to let empty shops

Landlords are to be forced to rent out shops that have been vacant for more than six months. The new powers will be introduced as part of the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill, which will be announced in the Queen’s Speech next month. Under the new plan, local authorities will be able to force landlords to rent out commercial property on high streets through a compulsory rental auction. Community groups and smaller businesses will then be able to take over empty retail units, in an attempt to revitalise struggling high streets. Landlords will be given a short grace period to fill the shop before local authorities begin the auction and invite bids from interested parties. Across the country, one in seven shops is sitting empty, according to latest figures from the British Retail Consortium. The north-east of England has the highest vacancy rate, with one in five closed. Kate Nicholls, chief executive of industry body UK Hospitality, said: “We welcome these new proposals to rejuvenate empty properties, which can blight an area, stimulate innovation and accelerate economic growth and recovery.” Sacha Lord, Greater Manchester’s night-time economy adviser, said: “This regeneration strategy has already worked in countless areas of Greater Manchester and I’m pleased that the government has recognised that much-needed action is now required to support our high streets.” The Times (£) Daily Mail