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A MOVE to reduce the number of vacant commercial properties has won support from the Economic Development Minister, who is seeking to amend the proposal in order to make it “proportionate and achievable”. Deputy Kirsten Morel has lodged his amendment in response to the proposition from Deputy Helen Miles for a mechanism to be introduced to discourage commercial properties from being left vacant for extensive periods of time, including penalties for sites left empty for too long. Deputy Morel said: “I wish to acknowledge the well-intentioned nature of Deputy Miles’ proposition and support the aim of reducing vacancy in commercial properties to enhance the vibrancy and economic resilience of our retail areas.” He said his amendment seeks “to make proportionate and achievable interventions that balance a robust regulatory environment whilst maintaining Jersey’s reputation as an attractive destination to invest and do business”. With Deputy Miles citing issues with vacant properties in her home parish of St Brelade as a main symptom of the problem, Deputy Morel states that success has been achieved to encourage “meanwhile use” of units in St Helier and that he wished to work more closely with retailers, landlords and parish officials in other parts of the Island. The minister is also seeking to bring in the requirement for a review on the structure of commercial leases and establishing best practice guidelines on maintenance of units by the end of 2026. Deputy Morel also seeks to proceed with an assessment of all commercial properties in the Island, including retail properties, to identify areas of acute retail vacancy in order to assist policy-making and reduce vacancy rates. The matter is due to be debated at the next sitting of the States Assembly, starting on Tuesday 11 November.
