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25/03/2011
Empty Shop Fronts To Get Art Project Make-Overs
Plans to give empty shops in town centres a new lease of life have been announced.
Finance Minister Sammy Wilson plans to change the law to allow community groups to use empty shop fronts for non-commercial purposes without paying full rates.
Under current laws businesses are penalised for making alternative use of empty premises.
Chief Executive of the Northern Ireland Independent Retail Trade Association, Glyn Roberts, welcomed the move saying that while retail was a crucial element in town centres,
arts projects add something too.
He commented: "If these vacant shops can be used to help these groups in a short term basis I think that is a very positive thing. It could take away from the awful look in some areas with the shutters down on many shops."
(JG/GK)
Finance Minister Sammy Wilson plans to change the law to allow community groups to use empty shop fronts for non-commercial purposes without paying full rates.
Under current laws businesses are penalised for making alternative use of empty premises.
Chief Executive of the Northern Ireland Independent Retail Trade Association, Glyn Roberts, welcomed the move saying that while retail was a crucial element in town centres,
arts projects add something too.
He commented: "If these vacant shops can be used to help these groups in a short term basis I think that is a very positive thing. It could take away from the awful look in some areas with the shutters down on many shops."
(JG/GK)
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