Call for more local commercial property input

Local planners should have a wider role in the location of commercial property and retail developments to avoid competition issues, it has been claimed.

According to the British Property Foundation (BPF), allowing local government to have more input will help regions maintain their economical growth via commercial property and avoid a big business stranglehold on property and land.

Michael Chambers, BPF director for regeneration and development, suggests that with more involvement at a local level problems can be corrected swiftly.

He said: "Local retail plans that can identify likely problems … to ensure our towns have a healthy blend of choice that suits both business and consumers."

Meanwhile, the BPF has suggested that commercial property landlords are set to continue shortening leases to gain more flexibility.

A review by the foundation reveals that the average length of a lease has dropped from 6.2 years to 5.7 years in the last 12 months.

Martin Slowe Property Services are Commercial Property Consultants offering a full range of Commercial Property Services.