Empty shop units plague Walsall
More than 25 shop units are standing empty in district centres in parts of Walsall, figures have shown.
In Darlaston there are eight which are vacant, the equivalent of eight per cent and just under five per cent in Willenhall, 11 shops.
Furthermore, there are nine empty units in Aldridge, which represents over five per cent. Figures for Bloxwich and Brownhills are currently not available.
It comes after Walsall town centre was highlighted as being in the top 10 in the country for the number of vacant units.
Council chiefs say the number of units are expected to decrease with some under redevelopment and some up for offer. Officers are also offering support on business rates and looking to make sure derelict shops are filled.
Regeneration chief, councillor Mohammed Nazir, said: "We are going to make sure we up our game to encourage new business and people to keep their shops open. It is difficult for the smaller business to meet their ends because of the financial challenges.
"I think they are as important as the town centre. Some people identify themselves to a district centre, it is important we have very vibrant and exciting district centres as well as Walsall town centre.
"I want us to assist and support and give guidance to local businesses and encourage people from outside to come to Walsall."
More than 500 business units are trading in Walsall town centre despite an independent study saying there has been a rise in vacant shops.
The town was highlighted as being among the top 10 in the country for the number of shops which are empty.
The Local Data Company said there is a 26.2 per cent vacant rate in Walsall, but council chiefs insist this is 21.8 per cent according to their records.
There are currently a number of vacant units in St Matthew's Quarter but this is due to traders needing to move out for a £11m scheme to create a new retail complex.
There are also plans for the new Primark and Co-op as part of the multi-million pound revamp of the heart of the town centre. Two cinemas are to be built and Walsall Market is to be transformed at a permanent home on The Bridge.
