Eight more local authorities have committed to implement High Street Rental Auction (HSRA) powers as the latest wave of Early Adopters.
These are Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council, Broxtowe Borough Council, Camden London Borough Council, Hillingdon London Borough Council, Lichfield District Council, North Northamptonshire Council, North Somerset Council and Westminster City Council.
High Street Rental Auctions, introduced at the end of last year, give local councils the power to auction off leases for commercial properties that have been empty for long periods.
This brings the total number of councils trailing the scheme to 11 – with Bassetlaw, Darlington and Mansfield councils becoming Early Adopters in November.
“We’re bringing shops and shoppers back to the high street, boosting trade, creating jobs, supporting our communities and driving local growth through our game changing High Street Rental Auction rollout,” local growth minister Alex Norris said.
“I am delighted that eight more councils have become Early Adopters of these new powers, acting as leading lights for other local authorities.
Small business minister Gareth Thomas added: “We promised to lift the shutters on the country’s high streets and that’s exactly what’s happening across these local authorities today.
“We know that small businesses are the drivers of our economy, which is why we’re working hard to boost exports and tackle late payments, and HRSAs are another crucial tool to support SMEs, increase jobs and go for growth.”
HSRAs allow councils to put properties up for auction that have been empty for more than 365 days in a 24-month period, for a one-to-five year lease. The measure is aimed at reinvigorating town centres and giving local businesses the backing they need to thrive.
Over £1 million of funding has been provided to support the rollout of HSRAs and the government said it looks forward to more councils delivering with the powers.
