Long-term vacancies
Lewisham Council is using new powers to tackle long-term commercial vacancies in Forest Hill, aiming to boost the high street.
Lewisham Council's Mayor and Cabinet approved the designation of Forest Hill District Centre as a high street rental auction area in February 2026. This decision aims to tackle long-term commercial vacancies and boost the vitality of the area's high street, with the council stating it is likely to reduce vacancy rates and benefit the local economy, society, and environment.
The designation was made under sections 191–193 of the Levelling Up and Regeneration Act 2023 and the High Street Rental Auctions (England) Regulations 2024. Authority has been delegated to the Executive Director for implementation of this approach to address properties that have remained unoccupied for an extended period.
Key facts
- Lewisham Council's Mayor and Cabinet approved the designation of Forest Hill District Centre as a high street rental auction area in February 2026. Source
- The designation was made under sections 191–193 of the Levelling Up and Regeneration Act 2023. Source
- The designation was also made under the High Street Rental Auctions (England) Regulations 2024. Source
- The council aims to tackle long-term vacancies and boost the vitality of the area's high street. Source
- Authority has been delegated to the Executive Director for implementation of this approach. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 1 October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.