Empty shops blighting high streets to be seized by councils in time for summer

EMPTY shops blighting English high streets will be seized by town halls from next month, ministers will announce tomorrow.

Just in time for the summer, new powers will allow local leaders to rent out store spaces that have been derelict for over a year.

Auctions will take place with no reserve price, giving businesses and community groups the chance to secure a spot on the high street for up to five years.

It is hoped the move will provide a much-needed boost to footfall in struggling shopping strips across towns and cities.

And it should help local authorities tackle increased unemployment and anti-social behaviour.

Levelling Up Minister Jacob Young said: “We want to bring high streets back to life and these new levelling up powers will help do just that.

“A lively high street brings an irreplaceable community spirit – one that is unique to its own area – along with new jobs and opportunities for local people.

“These new powers will enable local communities to take back control, backed by over £15 billion of levelling up funding which is transforming towns and left-behind communities across the UK.”

A new programme will also give ten areas, including in Hull and Blackpool, a share of £5 million to breathe new life and greenery onto their high streets.

Local authorities will receive £500,000 each to entice residents back to the shops, working in partnership with local people and community organisations to create bespoke plans.