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Traders demand review after threats of massive rent rises
CHURCH street traders are hoping the council is set to bow to their demands and tear up threats of a rent hike.
The council has pledged to review the proposed 25 per cent rent increase following a petition from traders in July.
Church Street Labour councillors Barbara Grahame and Aziz Toki say they have secured a commitment from Town Hall that the increases will be put on hold pending a full review. Cllr Grahame said: “These are long-standing Church Street tenants with good records. Their presence in this important council-owned shopping centre adds to the viability of the street. There is no justification for 25 per cent rent increases in these tough economic times.”
One example was Mornicrest Chemists, ordered to pay £22,250 a year, up from the previous year’s £17,800 bill.
Derek Barnden, Westminster City Council’s director of property, said: “The financial implications of a possible freeze on rent for Church Street businesses is under consideration by the council, along with other options to help them cope with the difficulties of the current economic situation.
“As yet no decision has been made. In addition to this the council has introduced new measures to help small companies through the recession with more than 200 businesses now to be paid within seven to 10 days for goods and services as opposed to the 30-day target set by the government.” |
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