ishi Sunak has vowed to reduce the number of empty shops on Britain’s high streets and fight graffiti and litter.
In his latest policy announcement, aimed at reinvigorating his bid for premiership, the former chancellor also pledged to expand police powers to tackle antisocial behavior in public spaces.
As part of his plan to rejuvenate high streets, many of which have been destroyed by shuttered shops and dilapidated buildings, Mr Sunak would remove hurdles to quickly convert those properties into new businesses or cafes.
We should all be proud of our high streets, so I will also take a hard line against anti-social behaviour, graffiti and litter
He would allow local authorities to double the fine for litter and graffiti and consider lowering the damage threshold for offenders.
Mr Sunak would strengthen injunctions that allow the police to disperse people who behave antisocially, and expand the powers to apply to types of behavior rather than just a location.
He would also seek to reduce regulations surrounding farmers’ markets, have local authorities assess social value when considering the location of public services, and protect access to ATMs.
Mr Sunak said: “I want to reduce the number of empty shops by 2025 and ensure that they are converted into thriving local assets, supporting skills, local businesses, economies and job creation. They will be accompanied by vital public services, such as police stations and employment offices.
“I will also support covered markets and farmers’ markets, making it as easy as possible for them to trade on our high streets and sell their fantastic products to the local people.
“We should all be proud of our high streets, so I will also be taking action against anti-social behaviour, graffiti and litter – through expanded police powers and increased fines.
“I’ve been clear that I have a plan to rebuild our economy; our shopping streets are a crucial part of that.”
Mr Sunak and his rival in the race for No. 10, Liz Trusshave faced calls from a group of the UK’s largest retailers to cut corporate rates.
The Retail Jobs Alliance – including: tescoGreggs and Sainsbury’s – accused the candidates last week of not prioritizing high streets as businesses are hammered by the so-called retail tax amid rising inflation.
CBIA Director General Tony Danker has also called for an urgent reform of the corporate pricing system.
As chancellor, Mr. Sunak provided corporate tax relief during the pandemic and oversaw a property tax review, but no radical reform followed.
Ms Truss has indicated that she would review business rates if she becomes Prime Minister.