Shop vacancy rates continue to drop

The UK’s shop vacancy rate has dropped to its lowest level since July 2010 in April, according to the Local Data Company.

The latest figures show that vacancy rates are continuing to decline and that the rate fell by 1 percent to 13.5 percent in April, compared to 14.1 percent a year ago.

Matthew Hopkinson, director at The Local Data Company, said: “The continued improvement in vacancy rates is an encouraging sign and reflects the increasing consumer confidence although recent footfall numbers showing decline perhaps allude to a more focused shopper when they do venture out.”

However, more than 50,000 units remain vacant across the UK’s high street, shopping centres and retail parks.