Aberdeen’s Union Street fills shops as new vacancies emerge

On Aberdeen’s Union Street, a community-led effort is bringing businesses into empty premises while more shops continue to close. In 2023, 57 of the street’s 198 units were vacant. Since then, 33 units have been filled and another 14 are in the process of being let, BBC News reports. But 20 more units have become vacant since the initiative began. [1]

The group, Our Union Street, has audited premises, tracked down landlords and brought available properties together on a website that also lists potential support, including council fit-out grants and a two-year business-rates discount. Its work involves volunteers, businesses, letting agents, landlords and the council. [1]

The council is also funding a new indoor food-and-drink market with the UK Levelling Up Fund. The £40m project includes converting the former BHS building into an entrance plaza. Parts of Union Street’s pavements are being widened, though residents have expressed frustration with construction disruption and traffic restrictions. [1]

The challenge extends beyond Aberdeen. Property analytics company Green Street estimates that one in eight British high-street properties is vacant. In England, councils can use High Street Rental Auctions to bring commercial units that have stood empty for at least a year back into use. Bassetlaw Council says more than 30 shops across its district have been let or are under offer as a result of the policy. [1]