This will allow local councils to tackle long-term empty properties in the city centre by putting the leases up for auction.
This will give a ‘right to rent’ for small businesses and community groups.
Oxford Civic Society has used shop windows in the High Street and Broad Street to promote its activities for the last three years, but other bodies have found this process difficult.
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Oxford Civic Society chairman Ian Green (Image: Contributed) Ian Green, chairman of OCS, said: “Like all big cities, Oxford has quite a lot of empty shops.
“Some have been empty for years. We welcome the idea that these shops should be used by start-up businesses and community groups.
“This could bring new energy and life into the city and make our streets more vibrant and attractive.”
The society will be watching how this is taken forward and will discuss this with Oxford City Council.
Speaking after the plans were announced, local growth minister Alex Norris said: “High streets are the beating heart of our communities.
“But for too long, too many have been neglected, with more and more empty lots and boarded up shopfronts.
“We are giving local councils the tools to take back control. High Street Rental Auctions will put local communities first, re-energising town centres and driving local opportunities and growth.”
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About the author
Toby is a senior reporter who has a particular interest in covering planning and local government.
He joined in September 2024 having been a reporter at the Hampshire Chronicle for three years.
Toby studied at the University of Brighton and can be found on X through the handle @JournoToby