Rise in applications to convert shops to homes

New research reveals that high street shop units are increasingly being targeted for conversion into homes. Analysis by commercial law firm EMW found that the number of conversion applications leaped 37%. Some 677 applications were made in 2020/2021, versus 494 in 2019/2020. However, out of the 677 applications for conversion, some 45% were rejected by local authorities. Marco Mauro, principal at EMW said: “Some local authorities are hesitant about losing too much commercial space. If too many shops are lost, the value of a high street as a destination is eroded, often permanently.” He said many councils are fearful their areas may become “dormitories” and residents will turn to other areas to shop.

City A.M.