Chair:
Edward Cooke, BCSC

Speaker:
Neil Blake, Oxford Economics

Panellists:
Matthew Hopkinson, Local Data Company
Darren Yates, Knight Frank LLP
Alice Breheny, Henderson Global Investors

What is the current UK position on vacancy rates and what are the agents observing as the 'hot or cold spots'?

The most pertinent issue for those involved in trying to create town centres that remain vibrant places to visit is how unoccupied retail space can be brought back into use, or put to alternative uses compatible with the aspirations and environment of a specific location.

This of course then raises the question over the potential demand for additional floor space and if so what this means for the future development pipeline. Ultimately though the challenge is, how can we as an industry continue to produce vibrant shopping destinations in light of these factors. 

The meeting on 20th March provided a unique opportunity to find out more. The future of the UK high street was discussed together with the findings of the recent BCSC Empty Shops research.