Councils 'ignoring town centre policy'

The Association of Convenience Stores have said that since the "town centre first" policy was launched, 76% of approved floor space was out if town.  The policy was Government guidance to help keep our Hugh Streets vibrant and to consider the impact of planning decisions on town centres.  The Association claims that local councils are ignoring planning guidance.

The Government needs to go further than this if they want to maintain the vibrancy of town centre High Streets.

They should give cash to councils that make their High Street parking areas free for people that spend on the High Street. The cuts that central Government has made to local councils has forced them to charge for every service and try to make their own money in every way they can.  This affects people's choice of whether they go to the High Street, pay to park and always have an eye in the clock, concerned about a parking ticket. The contrast is out of town, free parking, plenty of time and often more choice.

To compete, High Street have to start with the parking issue.  If you provide free parking for those who spend a certain amount in the town, maybe get your parking attendants to be a little more human and sort out the staff parking situations then it will go a long way to redressing the amount of floor space approved in town centres, as shoppers and retailers will want to return.

Can the Government be radical on landlords with vacant shops?

It seems such a shame when there are rows of empty shops in certain Town Centres.  In my local Town Centre there is a shopping precinct and there is a string of shops with no tenants.  There is a relief on paying rates for the first 3 months - and I agree with this, as it can take a little time to find tenants and find the right tenants.

Where I propose that the Government push a little harder is after the 3 months have passed.  I suggest that business rates in empty shops go to 150% of what they are when occupied - what greater incentive would there be to ensure landlords find a tenant and keep our High Streets vibrant and full if choice.