Report blasts vacant shops

THE number of empty shops in Whittlesey is likely to have a negative impact on the vitality of the area, says a report to Fenland District Council. The comments were made by Matrix Planning Ltd, which put forward proposals to allow City and County estat

THE number of empty shops in Whittlesey is likely to have a "negative impact" on the vitality of the area, says a report to Fenland District Council.

The comments were made by Matrix Planning Ltd, which put forward proposals to allow City and County estate agents to move premises.

The company has been given permission by planners to switch to a corner unit at 9 Market Street from adjoining premises.

But Matrix says the number of empty units in and around Market Street should be of concern to the council.

"A key objective for the council may be to assist in securing their re-use," says Matrix in a report. But the company accepted there were still sufficient occupied shops in the area to remain attractive to shoppers.

Defending the change of use of 9 Market Street, the company says the relocation of City and County represents a welcome increase in investment in the commercial area.

"A fairly large unit will be brought back into use, thus assisting vitality and viability," says Matrix.

And by allowing an estate agency into a prime site may assist bringing shoppers back to the area.