Short leases mooted to stop empty shops in Bognor

The week-long deals would enable the premises to be occupied by businesses unable or unwilling to enter into lengthy agreements.

They would allow smaller retailers to get into prime sites to provide more choice for shoppers and cut the risk of the unoccupied buildings being damaged by vandalism. Landlords would also benefit from lower insurance premiums.

The suggestion of the short term occupancies has come from a member of the BRighter Bognor residents' group who heard about it from an American contact.

Jean Coles, the secretary of BRighter Bognor, said action was needed before the current crop of unoccupied shops became a rash which dragged down the rest of the central area.

"The number of empty shops is increasing and rumours abound of more closures by the large chains," she stated.

"Empty shops premises make the town look run-down, they emphasise failure and are unattractive. Such factors encourage people to shop elsewhere.

"This reduces trade for the remaining shops and the vicious cycle continues. Leaving the town to become a wasteland of empty shops must not be an option.

"Rundown town centres encourage litter and rubbish, graffiti, abandoned trolleys and the loutish behaviour that accompanies such conditions."

BRighter Bognor believed that all the councils involved with the town should work with its chamber of commerce to take practical steps to improve the town centre.

Only by cheering up the town will it become less dependent on the actions of large retail chains.

BRighter Bognor members had responded to a survey asking what short term action was needed to improve the town.

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