The number of vacant commercial properties in the City of York has increased by 30 per cent since 2008. Four years ago there were 530 empty commercial properties, which included offices, shops, warehouses and public houses dotted around the city, but this figure rose to 688 in 2011.
Today the figure stands at between 648 and 697 unoccupied buildings, but the rate has slowed down dramatically from the initial burst in 2009. That year, the number of vacant commercial properties increased by 152, but the figure has remained steady ever since.
Speaking of the findings, Len Cruddas, Interim Chief Executive of the area’s Chamber of Commerce, said: “It feels to me that there are quite a few businesses doing well in York at the moment.
“The overall picture in York is strong and it compares favourably to the rest of the country. The underlying strength of York is its diversity – there’s lots going on over a range of sectors.”
However, businesses in the city are unfazed by the findings as many of them have recently celebrated anniversaries in the city. In addition, it has been reported that the City of York has one of the lowest retail commercial property vacancy rates in the UK – ten per cent lower than the national average.
Speaking of the opportunities available for businesses in York, Ian Floyd from York City Council, said: “The Centre For Cities report 2011 listed York as the third fastest growing city in the UK and our figures for registered business-rated properties reflects this, with a significant increase across the city since 2007.
“We have also seen a fall in empty business premises since this time last year.”
Do you run a business in York? Do you think the recent findings about vacancy rates will affect your business? Or do you think that having vacant commercial properties around the city simply means more business for you?
