The latest stats on shop vacancy rates showed a gulf where high streets and shopping centres are thriving and those looking gap-toothed.

The latest stats on shop vacancy rates showed a gulf where high streets and shopping centres are thriving and those looking gap-toothed.

While in London’s West End 9.2% of premises stand empty, that rises to 20% in North West England, according to figures from Local Data Company.

The difference illustrates the extent to which much of the UK remains in a retail downturn.

On the face of it, the emergence of flagship shopping destinations - such as Westfield Stratford and, next month, Trinity Leeds - look likely to represent another nail in the coffin of less glamorous high streets.

However, such openings can bring a new lease of life to tired neighbours. A halo effect was reported, for instance, at the Stratford Centre when Westfield opened next door.

But the efforts of retailers to adapt to tough conditions and the rise of multichannel are still being stymied by Government policies that fail to reflect the new realities.

Since the middle of the last decade, the costs of running UK retail have risen by a fifth, or £20bn - that’s equivalent to more than five years worth of Tesco’s last annual profit - and have outpaced sales growth.

Business rates have become a particular burden - and relieving that pressure is within the power of Government.

Ahead of next month’s Budget, the industry should renew its efforts to win a sensible business rates regime.

Please visit our website to support the Fair Rates for Retail campaign.