Empty Shops in Town Centres

Part of 1. Questions to the Cabinet Secretary for Energy, Planning and Rural Affairs – in the Senedd at 1:51 pm on 3 October 2018.

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Photo of David Rowlands David Rowlands UKIP 1:51, 3 October 2018

I thank the Cabinet Secretary for that answer. But, Cabinet Secretary, during a seminar given by the chief planning officer of Wales, a question was asked of him as to whether there were planning laws that would allow local authorities to force owners to maintain the cosmetic appearance of empty commercial premises. This would, of course, enhance the appearance of town centres, perhaps making them more conducive to attracting new businesses. Disappointingly, his answer was that there are no provisions in the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 other than to act if a premises posed an immediate risk. Could the Cabinet Secretary look at the possibility of providing local authorities with powers to demand this cosmetic upkeep by owners?