VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Empty Property: North Shropshire

Asked by Helen MorganLiberal DemocratMinistry of Housing, Communities and Local GovernmentTabled Answered 27 October 2025UIN 84367

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps he is taking to reduce the number of unoccupied shop buildings in North Shropshire.

Answered by Miatta Fahnbulleh

The Government is fully committed to revitalising our high streets and tackling vacancy, in North Shropshire and across the country. To help reduce the number of unoccupied shop units, the Government is empowering councils through High Street Rental Auctions, enabling them to bring long-term vacant properties back into use.

This is supported by wider national measures, including banning upwards-only rent reviews in commercial leases and introducing lower business rates for retail, hospitality, and leisure sectors from 2026. Additional powers such as the community right to buy and streamlined compulsory purchase orders will further support local revitalisation and help create more vibrant, accessible high streets.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim