1:00pm Friday 3rd July 2009
EMPTY shops in Southend could be spruced up, if a plan by a business pressure group goes ahead.
The Essex Federation of Small Businesses is suggesting the windows of empty shops could be used for boards advertising the virtues of the town, rather than being left blank or boarded up.
This would follow the example of Chelmsford, where the windows of the former Woolworths store in the High Street are being used as town information boards.
Spokesman Ken Wickham said: “If the area looks unattractive for shoppers they stay away, which means more shops close and so the circle continues.
“We have already seen some concern from retailers regarding vandalism of empty shops, and sadly these will have a bigger visual impact than the new shops opening in the town.”
He added keeping the windows looking good could also help landlords who were more likely to let empty shops if they could see it was a thriving area popular with shoppers.
“We are hoping Southend can lead the way with such an initiative so we can provide practical support and help to existing traders while at the same time deterring the vandals.”
Southend Council leader Nigel Holdcroft said: “We are looking at all ways of keeping the High Street as a busy and prosperous area, and this is one initiative we are looking at.
“We obviously have to see what sort of reception we receive from landlords, and also whether there are any planning problems which might arise.”
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