New research by the Local Data Company (LDC) has found that shop vacancy figures are the lowest they have been since 2010.

Empty shops have fallen to 13% down 0.1% from the month before. With retail and leisure vacancies following suit and falling again by 0.1% down to 11.6%.

"These numbers are encouraging and reflect the wider positive news on consumer sentiment and spend. These numbers were last seen back in 2010 so it is a cause for celebration!"

Said Matthew Hopkinson, director at LDC, however he went on to outline how,

"Recent closure news from B&Q and Morrisons show that these numbers can very easily change in the opposite direction. Whilst these numbers show more shops opening, we're also seeing structural change where shops are changing use to alternative uses, and March saw the largest number of demolished properties at 95 (40 in February).

Whilst one should not underestimate the challenges retailers face with price deflation and a very savvy consumer we're continuing to see the growth of food and beverage outlets on our high streets, which will occupy vacant shops when planning allows."