Mayor of London Boris Johnson has set out proposals to support small retailers and ensure a “diverse and dynamic” retail sector across the capital.
Earlier today the Mayor chaired his first business summit at City Hall which was attended by representatives from across London’s business community and outlined plans to change the London Plan to ensure more affordable retail units are provided for in new retail developments.
The Mayor’s plans include enabling planners to use section 106 agreements to require developers to make provision for affordable small shop units in major retail schemes.
Johnson said “small shops add real character and diversity to the Capital’s high streets but they are finding themselves squeezed out by competition from supermarkets and rising unsustainable rents.”
“My proposals aim to help reverse this trend, offering small retailers the opportunity to make a success of their enterprise both by making more suitable premises available and taking steps to level the playing field by securing affordable rents.”
The plans have been supported by Stephen Alambritis of the Federation of Small Business who commented: “New retail developments will always be springing up in London. The key is to ensure that small businesses are part and parcel of those shopping sites. By emphasizing the need for suitable premises and affordable rents Boris Johnson is definitely travelling in the right direction.”
A copy of the Mayor’s plans – Planning for a Better London – can be downloaded from london.gov.uk
