Lambeth Council says it’s using bold new powers to tackle empty shops and revive High Streets.
Properties vacant for more than a year in in Brixton, West Norwood, and New Park Road in Clapham will be targeted.
Lambeth is one of only two councils in London to be awarded a grant from the Greater London Authority to pilot the year long scheme.
A new report setting out the plans shows Lambeth faces a ten-year-high retail vacancy rate of 26%, with Brixton most affected.
Cllr Marcia Cameron, Lambeth’s Cabinet Member for Inclusive Economy, said: “Local shopping streets are the heartbeats of our communities, and the council is committed to doing everything it can to make sure they are thriving and attractive places to do business.
“We are determined to collaborate with landlords to help them bring empty shop units back into use, for everyone’s benefit. But HSRAs could be very useful in kick-starting growth, and we will not hesitate to use these auctions to force changes that will revitalise our High Streets.”
Lambeth will partner with organisations, such as Business Improvement Districts, to engage with landlords and marketing to potential tenants to maximise the outcomes of the pilot.
Gianluca Rizzo, Managing Director of Brixton BID said: “We’re looking forward to working with Lambeth to use these new powers to unlock the potential of vacant spaces across Brixton. We want to see empty units brought back into use in ways that reflect Brixton’s unique character and support our night-time economy and Brixton as a unique destination. This pilot is a practical step towards delivering the priorities of Lambeth’s Night Time Strategy on the ground in Brixton.”
