Call for LPA reform

Living costs up by 6%

ADZs ‘unclear’, say Lords

Demand drops in the south

Flexible Working Preferred

Insolvencies rise in 08

59% rent cut for retailer

New home range launched

7% of NI pubs have closed

No proof for quango, say BRC

Hauliers Protest in Park Lane

Parliamentary debate has begun over whether the Local Planning Authorities (LPA’s) should do more to support small business on the high street, following allegations that chain retail outlets are pushing rents out of reach for start-ups and small businesses.

MP for Battersea Martin Linton recommended that local councils are given “the powers that they need to protect food shops in popular shopping streets.”

James Lowman, Chief Executive of the Association of Convenience Stores (ACS), said “the planning system should champion diversity above all else; this is the way to maintain the character and vibrancy of our communities.”