22 November 2024
Independent shop owners across the UK are being encouraged by Bira to reach out to their local councils about the government's newly announced High Street Rental Auction (HSRA) powers, which aim to tackle persistently vacant commercial properties on UK high streets.
Introduced through the Levelling Up and Regeneration Act 2023, the HSRA legislation will come into force on 2nd December. It will give local authorities the ability to put the leases of long-term empty shops up for public auction, allowing businesses and community groups to secure short-term tenancies.
Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira, said: "The introduction of High Street Rental Auctions is a positive step forward in revitalising our town and city centres. For far too long, disengaged landlords have been allowed to leave key commercial properties sitting vacant, to the detriment of local businesses and communities."
"We urge all independent shop owners who have experienced issues with persistently empty premises in their area to engage with their local council. These new rental a provides an opportunity for retailers and other organisations to gain access to high street spaces that may have previously been off-limits."
"High streets are the beating heart of our local communities, and we cannot allow them to wither away due to landlord inaction. These new rental auction powers give opportunities to established or new retailers to secure affordable, short-term tenancies and expand their reach within their community."
The government has committed over £1 million in funding to support the HSRA process, which aims to breathe new life into town centres by bringing businesses, community services and customers back to the high street.
Bira is encouraging independent retailers to contact their local authority to understand how the HSRA scheme will be implemented in their area.
See our hub to keep up with new laws and legislation changes
In today's interconnected world, staying informed and compliant with ever-evolving legal frameworks is essential for individuals, businesses, and organizations alike.
Make Bira's Legislation and Policy Hub your comprehensive resource for navigating the complex landscape of laws, regulations, and governmental policies.
Related News
All News-
How local shops are breathing new life into our high streets
Independent stores are helping to redefine the high street experience, offering unique products and creating community hubs that bring people together and drive local vibrancy.
-
Bira welcomes new chapter for WHSmith high street stores
Bira has responded to today's announcement that WHSmith has sold its 480 high street stores to Modella Capital for £76 million, expressing cautious optimism for the future of these important retail spaces.
-
Retailers association says spring statement fails to address high street crisis
A leading retailers association has said the Chancellor's Spring Statement delivered today has failed to address the "perfect storm" of cost pressures facing independent retailers across the UK.
-
Bira calls for high street support in Spring Budget statement
Bira has warned that independent high street shops are facing a "perfect storm" of declining in-store sales and rising costs, despite modest overall growth in the retail sector.