Empty Shops Network - Artists and Makers
Rob Hilken
About the Empty Shops Network:
"An ingenious way of bringing art to the people" Alan Yentob
"Helping local individuals and groups to work with councils in converting less glamorous spaces to good use" The Times
Welcome to a network of people using empty shops and void spaces across the UK to create temporary pop-up shops, community spaces and arts galleries which support local business by bringing people back to town centres.
In February 2009, it's estimated that about 10% of the UKs shops are sitting empty and the figure is rising to one in six shops by the end of the year, with over 1000 high street businesses closing every week. Landlords letting artists, arts organisations and community groups use their empty spaces see the property looking great and kept in good order, and their business getting some great publicity.
Existing local traders benefit from a revived town centre, with more visitors and a brighter environment.
The users benefit from low-cost space on short and easy-to-manage leases, meaning they can take a bigger risk on bolder, more innovative and experimental projects. And the chance to get a good business kick-started.
Meaning local communities benefit from a better high street. And seeing their town being brought back to life will visit, spend locally and maybe stop other businesses from closing too.