Next week the government is taking action to breath new life into Portsmouth high streets, the government has unveiled comprehensive plans to bring life back to empty shops that have plagued our city. High streets, are the beating heart of local communities, and for to long have been forgotten, leading to an increase in empty lots and boarded-up shopfronts.
These initiatives come in response to the widespread decline in town centres across the country, a problem exacerbated by the previous government. With one in seven high street shops currently closed, Labour is committed to revitalising our high streets, ensuring they thrive once more.
Amanda Martin MP for Portsmouth North said:
“At the core of the government’s strategy is the introduction of ‘High Street Rental Auctions’, a mechanism designed to empower local councils to take decisive action against vacant properties. This initiative will allow councils to auction off leases for commercial properties that have sat empty for over 365 days within a two-year period”.
Ms Martin added:
“By doing so, we aim to restore control to local authorities and bring disengaged landlords back into the fold. Empty shops are a blight on our communities,”
“We are calling time on empty units and giving local councils the tools they need to drive local opportunities and growth. High street rental auctions will not only restore confidence in our high streets but also increase footfall and enhance safety in town centres.”
To support this initiative, the government has allocated £1.5 million to assist in the auction process, creating jobs for local residents and supporting local businesses into the heart of communities. Four local authorities—Bassetlaw, Darlington, Mansfield, and Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole—are set to lead the way as Early Adopters of these new powers, setting an example for councils across England.
The Government recognises that high street rental auctions are just one component of a broader strategy to rejuvenate town centres. Discussions are underway regarding additional reforms, including the permanent lowering of business rate multipliers and increased funding to tackle retail crime, both of which are vital for supporting high streets.
Amanda added:
“As we push back against the decline seen in recent years, we are committed to ensuring that our high streets are not just restored but are vibrant community assets that benefit everyone”.
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