The number of vacant retail units in County Durham’s town centres has surged for the third consecutive year, with overall vacancy rates climbing to 19.1%, significantly above the target of 13.9%. This troubling trend has been noted across nine areas within the county.
Peterlee, Bishop Auckland, and Newton Aycliffe have been identified as the towns with the highest percentages of empty shops. In response to these challenges, Durham County Council is actively working on initiatives aimed at regenerating the high streets.
Rachel Anderson, assistant director of policy at the North East Chamber of Commerce, remarked on the ongoing difficulties faced by high streets, stating, “We recognise that some councils have taken positive steps by identifying long-term vacant premises and working constructively with landlords.” She urged councils in the region to adopt a proactive and collaborative approach to ensure that towns and city centres remain vibrant and commercially viable.
Seaham stands out with the lowest percentage of empty shops in the county, attributed to the community’s efforts in hosting more events. Mayor Margaret Levitt highlighted the town’s resilience, saying, “Although we have the same challenges that other towns have and are affected by similar things, we and the community seem to fight back very well and come together when needed.” She noted that Seaham is increasing free public events despite cutbacks elsewhere.
Graham Wood, the economic development manager at Durham County Council, acknowledged the hard work being done to rejuvenate high streets. He stated, “Town centres across the country are facing many challenges due to the changing shopping habits of residents and the continued pressure from online retail, which is undoubtedly having an effect on the number of empty shops.” Wood confirmed that the council will continue to engage with owners of vacant retail units to discuss their plans for the properties and explore alternative uses.
A detailed breakdown of the percentage of empty shops in various County Durham towns reveals the following statistics:
- Peterlee – 40.8% (up from 38.4%)
- Bishop Auckland – 35.4% (up from 32.1%)
- Newton Aycliffe – 26% (up from 25.2%)
- Shildon – 22.6% (unchanged)
- Ferryhill – 22.2% (up from 20%)
- Stanley – 21.5% (up from 16.7%)
- Consett – 16.7% (up from 16.3%)
- Barnard Castle – 15.2% (up from 12.2%)
- Chester-le-Street – 13.8% (down from 14.4%)
- Durham City – 11.7% (up from 11%)
- Spennymoor – 10.6% (down from 12.6%)
- Crook – 8.8% (down from 8.9%)
- Seaham – 8.4% (up from 7.3%)
In an effort to revitalise high streets and public spaces, new government initiatives, including the Pride in Place programme, have been introduced. A total of £20 million has been allocated for investment in Stanley, Peterlee, Crook, and Tow Law.
Durham County Council is also implementing various support measures for town centres, such as the Towns and Villages Programme and the Targeted Business Improvement Scheme. Additionally, last year, the Reform UK-led local authority announced plans to trial new enforcement measures aimed at addressing the issue of empty shops and enhancing high streets in Bishop Auckland and Stanley. One proposed solution includes the introduction of high street rental auctions to bring vacant shops back into use.
