Consultation Opens on Plans to Bring Empty Shops Back into Use
Residents, businesses and landlords are being encouraged to have their say on proposals that could help bring long-term vacant commercial properties in Aylesbury town centre back into use.
Buckinghamshire Council has launched a six-week consultation on proposals to designate parts of Aylesbury, Chesham and High Wycombe as pilot areas for High Street Rental Auctions (HSRAs).
High Street Rental Auctions are a new power available to local councils that could help bring empty commercial properties back into use where they have remained vacant for a prolonged period. Before these powers can be used, councils must formally identify the areas where they could potentially apply.
The consultation forms part of Buckinghamshire Council's wider ambition to support regeneration, strengthen local economies and create thriving town centres. Aylesbury has been selected as one of three pilot locations because of its importance to the county's regeneration strategy.
The council has stressed that its priority is to work positively with landlords and businesses to encourage vacant units to be occupied voluntarily. High Street Rental Auctions would only ever be considered where properties have remained empty for a sustained period and other efforts to bring them back into use have not been successful.
Commenting on the consultation, Buckinghamshire Council's Cabinet Member for Resources, Cllr Robert Carington, said:
"Our town centres play a vital role in the economic, social and cultural life of Buckinghamshire.
"Our first priority will always be to support voluntary occupation and help owners find tenants where possible. High Street Rental Auctions provide an additional tool that can help tackle long-term vacancy where other efforts have not succeeded.
"By bringing suitable vacant units back into use, we can create new opportunities for local businesses and community organisations, increase footfall and support stronger local economies."
The consultation runs from Monday 29 June until Sunday 9 August, with feedback helping to inform the council's decision on whether to proceed with the proposed pilot areas.
If you live, work or own a business in Aylesbury, now is your opportunity to help shape the future of the town centre and share your views.
To find out more and take part in the consultation, visit the Your Voice Bucks website.
