Empty Shops Network

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"An ingenious way of bringing art to the people" Alan Yentob

"Helping local individuals and groups to work with councils in converting less glamorous spaces to good use" The Times

We know that town centres are changing. Empty shops are a very visible sign, but they're also the spaces being used to work out the future of town centres. The Empty Shops Network is currently undertaking a period of research and reflection as we talk to pop-up people to find out what's been happening.

Town centres are becoming spaces for leisure and play. For convenience, out of town or a shopping mall is easier; for price and choice, the internet wins. The places that are doing well combine interesting, niche retail (where customer service is king) with good quality arts and culture, decent public realm, lots of local distinctiveness and a vibrant, varied cafe culture. The pop-up shop has become a feature of the high street, adding interest and variety and increasing the time people spend in town centres - and it's here to stay.

Empty shops reused can support new business and old, give space to creative industry and social enterprise alike, and add art, culture, community and fun to our high streets. It's easy to use empty shops, for community projects or a pop-up shop - and the free resources on this site will help you.

The team behind the Empty Shops Network have been using empty shops for ten years and giving away the skills, knowledge and understanding to anyone who wants to try for the last three years. Now we're going to find out what that all means and have a go at guessing the future. 

Dan Thompson, Empty Shops Network founder, October 2011

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Find projects by area:

England: North| South| East| West| Midlands| London

Scotland| Wales| Northern Ireland

International empty shops projects

How to get involved in the Empty Shops Network:

Not on the list? If you know any empty shop or scheme we haven't listed, please get in touch with the Empty Shops Network.

You can browse artistsandmakers.com to find out about current empty shop opportunities for artists and makers across the UK.

You can also make a donation to support the Empty Shop Network

Last Updated: Monday, October 31 2011 @ 01:06 PM UTC|Hits: 108,535