Feedback opportunity ending soon for vacant building rental scheme

Westmorland and Furness Council is urging stakeholders to share their views on a pilot scheme aimed at repurposing long-term vacant town centre buildings in locations such as Barrow, Kendal, Penrith, and Ulverston.

The initiative uses High Street Rental Auction (HSRA) powers to encourage landlords to lease persistently vacant commercial properties to local businesses or community groups.

With the pilot consultation closing on Tuesday, 7th April, the council is keen to gather opinions from those interested in the project's proposed areas.

HSRAs enable councils to auction leases for properties left unoccupied for over 12 months continuously, or for 366 days within a 24-month period, if landlords take no action.

Councillor Jonathan Brook, Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Economy, emphasised the potential of HSRAs in revitalising high streets.

He encouraged voluntary letting by landlords and highlighted the importance of public participation in the consultation to tailor the scheme effectively.

The areas proposed for the pilot scheme include Cavendish Street and Dalton Road in Barrow, Stramongate and Finkle Street in Kendal, Angel Lane and Queen Street in Penrith, and New Market Street and County Square in Ulverston.

The council has already received more than 100 responses and is particularly interested in additional feedback for Barrow, Penrith, and Ulverston.