Council baffled by Rotherham empty shops claim

Claims that Rotherham has seen the sharpest rise in vacant shops in Yorkshire have puzzled business leaders at the council.

Research on behalf of the BBC found 28 per cent of the town’s stores empty for the year ending June.

Matthew Hopkinson, from surveyors the Local Data Company, said: “Rotherham’s problem is that it sits right in the shadow of Meadowhall with all the latest jazzy brands.

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“It’s also close to Sheffield and there is also a lot of pull away. If you don’t live or work close to Rotherham, you’d probably go elsewhere.”

But LDC findings for the end of 2009 showed Rotherham town centre had just six per cent vacancy rates. Another survey earlier this year said 15 per cent.

Tim O’Connell, Rotherham Borough Council’s business and retail investment team manager, said: “We do not believe there has been a swing from 15 per cent to 28 per cent during 2010.

“A total of 38 businesses have opened in the town centre and only 24 have closed.

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"That shows a net gain, which goes against the national trend and shows considerable growth when compared to last year when only 15 businesses opened.”

Rent and set-up grants are offered to entice new businesses into Rotherham and the Shop Local discount card is designed to increase the amount spent within the town centre.

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