The North West still has the most empty shop and leisure units in the country – and Morecambe’s West End is among the worst performers.
The Business Desk reports that according
to figures from the Local Data Company 17.3% of units in the region were empty, up from 17.1% in 2012 and well ahead of the national average
of 12.2% (2012: 12.6).
Among the worst performing locations was Morecambe’s West End, along with Bolton, Bootle, Church Street in Runcorn, Altrincham and Eccles.
But
there is some light at the end of the tunnel, perhaps – Local Data Company also notes that Morecambe had reduced its shop vacancy rate
from 30% in 2010 to 17.1%, the biggest improvement of any location.
The recently reported news that developer PlaceFirst has secured planning permission for a multi-million pound scheme to create 51 apartments and houses in Chatsworth Gardens, reported by The Visitor, will also no doubt help boost local business.