Key Takeaways:
- The UK government has introduced High Street Rental Auctions (HSRAs) to help revitalize town centers by filling vacant properties.
- Bournemouth is one of the first councils to engage with the HSRAs program and is proposing to designate Bournemouth Town Centre as a pilot area.
- Properties must be vacant for over 12 months and provide a positive economic, social, or environmental benefit to be considered for the HSRAs program.
- A public consultation showed 75% of respondents supported the proposal, and the council is recommending that the Cabinet approve the designation.
- The program aims to create opportunities for local businesses and community groups to bring new energy to the town centre.
Introduction to High Street Rental Auctions
The UK government introduced High Street Rental Auctions (HSRAs) in December 2024, giving councils the power to rent vacant properties. Bournemouth is one of the first councils to engage with this program and is also acting as an advisor to the government to refine the HSRAs process. The program aims to revitalize town centers by filling vacant properties and creating opportunities for local businesses and community groups.
Proposed Designation of Bournemouth Town Centre
A report to the cabinet proposes designating Bournemouth Town Centre as a pilot area for HSRAs. To be considered for the program, properties must be vacant for over 12 months and provide a positive economic, social, or environmental benefit. Currently, 20% of properties in Bournemouth are vacant, which is in line with the national average. The council believes that there is great potential to engage landlords and fill vacant units, building on recent successes and further revitalizing the area.
Funding and Support
Funding for a vacancy register has been secured from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MCHLG), which will allow BCP Council to understand the extent of vacant properties in Bournemouth Town Centre. For every high street rental auction undertaken, a non-ringfenced revenue grant of up to £5,223 is available to cover costs such as administering and managing the auction, marketing, issuing legal notices, and gaining property access.
Public Consultation and Feedback
A public consultation took place between July 15 and August 12, with 75% of respondents supporting the proposal. The report emphasizes that the process will take time, with several stages before the first auction can be held. Bournemouth is the first area being used as the Council’s pilot for the program, and there is potential for this initiative to be rolled out in any town or district centre across BCP.
Cabinet Recommendation and Future Plans
The report recommends that the Cabinet approve Bournemouth Town Centre as the first area where High Street Rental Auctions can take place. It also suggests that future decisions about adding more areas be handled by the Chief Operations Officer, together with the Portfolio Holder, as long as consultation rules are followed. Councillor Richard Herrett, Portfolio Holder for Destination, Leisure and Commercial Operations at BCP Council, stated that the new powers will help keep high streets vibrant and thriving.
Reaction from Local Politicians
Local politicians have expressed their views on the proposal. Cllr Cameron Adams, Reform UK Deputy Group Leader, stated that any measures to encourage more businesses into the high street should be encouraged, but the Labour government’s business rate hikes could still make properties unviable for many prospective businesses. Bournemouth West MP Jessica Toale expressed her support for the proposal, stating that she has been pushing for BCP Council to make full use of High Street Rental Auction powers since they were introduced. Bournemouth East MP Tom Hayes also expressed his support, stating that High Street Rental Auctions can help fill empty shops and bring life back into the heart of town.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the introduction of High Street Rental Auctions is a positive step towards revitalizing town centers and creating opportunities for local businesses and community groups. The proposal to designate Bournemouth Town Centre as a pilot area has received significant support, and the council is recommending that the Cabinet approve the designation. With the right funding and support, this initiative has the potential to make a significant impact on the local economy and community.