In an effort to kick start the economy, the Government is investigating how the planning system can be simplified in order to encourage economic development.

One of the suggestions is to simplify the Use Classes Order to make it easier for businesses to become established. One option is to allow empty properties in the High Street to be used for an alternative use for a temporary period without the benefit of planning permission.

The Government believes that empty properties are not only unsightly, but can lead to a spiral of decline, acting as a magnet for anti-social behaviour. Putting the space back into good use will benefit the local community whilst a permanent solution is found.

Adam Pyrke, Director of Planning at Colliers International said: “This is a very sensible suggestion and could have immediate benefits in High Streets across the country. It is frequently the case that empty banks and building societies remain vacant whilst another similar is sought.

“The reason for this is that planning authorities often limit the number of such permissions they grant in a High Street, and if the property were to be occupied by a shop, even for a temporary period, the landlord would not thereafter be able to re-let the premises to another bank or building society without a new planning permission – which may not be granted.

“Proposals which make it clear that empty Class A2 premises can be let as a shop for a temporary period, say up to two years, and that at the end of that period will revert to Class A2 use, should see a large number of these units occupied as shops whilst a long term occupier is found”.