Over two-thirds of empty spaces across 24 London boroughs studied have no immediate plans for meanwhile prospects, according to a recent study by London’s Green party.
Whilst empty shop fronts may seem a superficial issue, an increase in unoccupied spaces, specifically in densely populated areas, can lead to a range of detrimental issues and experts explain how this increase in empty spaces could affect city communities.
Lack of financial independence
Independent shops, cafes and community spaces all generate local interest, providing not only services to the community but generating income. Unoccupied spaces however don’t generate any local income nor provide benefits for those in the community, in fact, they can cause other shops and services around them to move location and deprive areas.
Where unoccupied spaces can be filled, in a timely manner, this decline can potentially be prevented.
Mahmud Shahnawaz, founder of the social enterprise, The Utilize Project, explains: “We’ve seen the Isle of Dogs community in Canary Wharf benefit both socially but also financially as unique businesses, such as Metre Squared Arts Hub, AIP Group and I Can Project, fill the empty spaces.
“Locals gravitate towards these local businesses to spend their money. If they remained empty, people would go elsewhere to spend their money, meaning the area may have had to rely on the council or third parties for financial support.”, he explains.
Loss of community
The London Green party report highlights that across the capital, a significant number of community spaces, in particular, have been left vacant, such as meeting rooms, community centres, halls and play areas.
Shahnawaz adds that: “it is these types of places that bring the community together and that encourage positive change. If a community lacks social hubs, it will quickly become lifeless.”
As spaces are left vacant, there becomes little to no reason for people to visit and empty properties can lead to a loss of togetherness and disjointed spaces within a community.
Increased crime rates
Studies in the US have shown that areas with a high number of vacant properties have increased levels of crime. Offences such as vandalism, drugs, and assault all become more common.
A further study by Forest Research has also shown that unused and neglected open spaces are a magnet for crime and vandalism[4].
Experts say this is likely due to the variety of environmental changes which come with empty spaces. Overgrown plants can bring increased cover and lower levels of monitoring and footfall make the areas more desirable for crime.
Building neglect
Without occupation, buildings tend to receive less attention and upkeep. At best, this is an aesthetical danger as ugly buildings deter people from visiting or walking through an area.
However, it can also become a safety hazard, with loose tiles, leaking, mould and cracked glass.
If left for multiple years, the structure of the building can deteriorate and become a serious danger to surrounding buildings and inhabitants.
It’s in the property owner’s, council's, and community’s best interest to fill empty spaces to avoid these dangers and to add life back into the area.
