Vacant commercial property ‘is knocking confidence’

Posted 03/08/2009

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has warned that vacant commercial property is hitting the confidence of businesses in the UK.

According to the organisation, high streets across the country are currently occupied by gaps where thriving shops should be.

The BCC has therefore called on the relevant authorities to look at possible new uses for these vacant units.

In addition, it has suggested that employment taxes be set at a level that will help businesses with cash flow and encourage the creation of new jobs.

“Vibrant town centres are at the heart of prosperous communities,” said David Frost, director general of the BCC.

This echoes recent comments from the British Retail Consortium, which said high street shops are “crucial” because they provide jobs and essential services.

Figures from the organisation show that since last autumn, the proportion of town centre stores that are vacant has risen three-fold to 12 per cent.