Lambeth identifies high streets to pilot groundbreaking powers to auction off empty shops

A member of the public walks past a bridge over Brixton Road

Three Lambeth areas will pilot a scheme to use new powers requiring landlords to rent out persistently vacant commercial properties, after the move was endorsed by local residents and businesses.

 

High Street Rental Auction (HRSA) powers allow councils to require landlords to rent out commercial properties that have been vacant for extended periods, helping to reduce vacancy and support local economies in line with Lambeth’s 10-year Growth Plan. 

Lambeth Council has confirmed that Brixton, West Norwood and the New Park Road Triangle on Brixton Hill will be the first areas designated for HSRA.  

The designation follows a statutory consultation, where the majority of respondents supported the proposal to use new powers to enable Lambeth to auction off permission to rent shops that have been empty for more than a year. Survey responses highlighted a number of additional areas that could be designated for auctions in the future, including larger centres such as Streatham and Clapham, as well as local centres such as Loughborough Junction, Acre Lane and Elm Park. 

Lambeth sought to designate three areas with the highest eligible long-term vacancy in order to test the effectiveness of the powers in different high street contexts. The council will prioritise proactive engagement with landlords and explore voluntary solutions before pursuing formal notice and auction proceedings.  

Through the programme, the council will cover auctions costs to reduce barriers for small businesses, and support will be provided to help prospective tenants navigate the auction process. Lambeth will also work closely with local partners, including Business Improvement Districts, to maximise the impact of the programme. 

 

Mayor of London funded support for delivery  

As part of the Mayor of London’s work to support more mission-driven property management across the city’s high streets, Lambeth has received £50,000 from the Mayor of London and UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund to support the borough’s HSRA programme. 

 

Councillor Marcia Cameron stands in Lambeth Town Hall
“High streets are the vital core of communities across the country, and Lambeth is no different. But, in recent years, our shopping streets have been at the front line of economic challenges, and shops of all sizes are not thriving as they once did. “We’re committed to doing everything we can to revive our high streets, and these powers offer a golden opportunity to tackle the scourge of persistently empty premises. We’ll work with all our landlords, residents and local businesses to make sure High Street rental auctions help bring shoppers back to these three areas.”
Cllr Marcia Cameron
Cabinet Member for Inclusive Economy

Looking for space on Lambeth’s high streets? 

Any businesses, organisations or entrepreneurs interested in accessing space on the high street through the HSRA programme can register their interest through the council’s property enquiry form below

PROPERTY ENQUIRY FORM