Gloucester City Council has launched an innovative initiative, the High Street Rental Auction, designed to combat the rising number of empty shops in the city centre. The scheme aims to attract new tenants by auctioning off leases for vacant properties, encouraging businesses and entrepreneurs to fill these unused spaces. By doing so, the council hopes to rejuvenate the high street, creating a more vibrant and economically active city centre.
This auction approach offers a fresh opportunity for local traders and startups to secure affordable retail space, fostering business growth and community engagement. The council believes that activating these empty units will not only enhance the shopping experience but also contribute to the overall vitality and appeal of Gloucester’s high streets.