Like most other towns right now, Weymouth may have its problems, but I think we should be focusing on the positive side. It does exist!
The picture that was painted in the Echo’s front page story (‘Ghost town fears over empty shops in Weymouth’, April 15) was too negative by far.
There are plenty of people still interested in town centre shop premises in Weymouth. We know that, because as commercial property agents we are actually very busy helping people to revive shops in Weymouth - and in Dorchester.
Some of the empty shops which were pictured on the front of the Echo are either under offer or being developed, or leases are being renewed.
The other good news is that typically the private landlords that we work with are actually flexible in their approach. Tenants are asking for rent reductions or more flexible terms and this is widely accepted. Shops are starting to fill up again.
In the article on Wednesday, Nigel Reed, president of Weymouth Chamber of Commerce, expressed concern about ‘very high’ rents being sought by some of the institutional organisations which own town centre shop premises.
We have no control, unfortunately, over the institutionally-owned premises controlled by out-of-town agents who have no real understanding of the local economy, but we are trying to approach these investment or private pension funds and advise them.
We have found that one of the biggest issues is high business rates. If these were reduced or premises were rated differently this would certainly help to keep shops open.
But beyond that, let’s focus more on picking Weymouth up and concentrate on matters that are more positive.
Things like the potential re-development of the Wessex Stadium (including a new community sports stadium), Portland Port, Osprey Quay, the proposed Pavilion, a substantial tenant for the former Methodist Chapel, the seafront regeneration and so on.
Plus, new businesses like The Hair Boutique, new premises for Bassetts Lighting and the new tenant for the Cook Shop outlet.
The list of new businesses goes on. If we all stay positive we can make Weymouth a great place to live, work and play.
Matthew Pye, Director, Bartle Pye Commercial Property Consultants Dorchester
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