Lambeth Council Auctions Empty Shops in Brixton 2026

Key Points

• Lambeth Council in South London has vowed to auction off shops that have remained empty for more than a year as part of a one-year pilot scheme.
• The initiative targets three specific areas: Brixton, West Norwood, and New Park Road in Clapham.
• One in four business units across the Lambeth borough are currently vacant, with Brixton being the most affected area.
• The pilot scheme aims to address high vacancy rates and support economic growth, as outlined in a council report published last week.
• Lambeth Council has been granted sweeping powers, including the potential ‘right to rent’ units empty for between one and five years.
• Along with Lewisham Council, Lambeth is one of only two areas awarded a grant from the Greater London Authority (GLA) to implement the national High Street Rental Auction (HSRA) scheme.
• The HSRA is part of a broader national effort to revive high streets across the UK.
• Cllr Marcia Cameron, Lambeth’s cabinet member for inclusive economy, emphasised the council’s commitment to thriving local shopping streets.

South London (South London News) – February 11, 2026 – Lambeth Council has announced plans to auction off empty shops in a bold move to breathe new life into struggling high streets. The authority is focusing on Brixton, West Norwood, and New Park Road in Clapham, where one in four business units sit vacant, with Brixton hit hardest by the issue. This one-year pilot scheme, backed by a grant from the Greater London Authority, grants the council sweeping powers to take control of units empty for up to five years under the national High Street Rental Auction scheme.

What is the High Street Rental Auction Scheme?

The High Street Rental Auction (HSRA) scheme represents a national initiative designed to tackle persistent commercial vacancies plaguing UK high streets. As detailed in the original coverage by MyLondon, Lambeth Council is pioneering this approach locally alongside Lewisham, making them the only two London boroughs to receive funding from the Greater London Authority for the project.

The scheme empowers councils with the ‘right to rent’ – a mechanism allowing them to seize control of long-vacant properties and auction them off to new tenants keen to revitalise the spaces.

A council report published last week, as reported extensively in the MyLondon article, underscores the urgency of the measure. It highlights how one in four business units in Lambeth are currently empty, stifling economic activity and community vitality. By targeting properties idle for one to five years, the pilot aims to accelerate lettings and foster growth in key commercial zones.

Which Areas in South London are Targeted by the Auction Plan?

Lambeth Council’s pilot zeroes in on three high-profile locations: Brixton, West Norwood, and New Park Road in Clapham. Brixton emerges as the epicentre of the vacancy crisis, with sources noting it as the most affected district within the borough.

These areas, rich in community significance, have seen shopping parades languish, contributing to a sense of decline amid broader post-pandemic economic pressures.

The MyLondon report specifies that these sites were selected due to their high vacancy rates and potential for quick turnaround. New Park Road in Clapham, for instance, features prominently as a residential-commercial mix where empty units detract from local appeal. West Norwood similarly suffers, with empty shops undermining efforts to maintain vibrant high streets. This targeted approach ensures the pilot’s impact is measurable within the year.

Why Has Lambeth Council Launched This Pilot Scheme?

The driving force behind the initiative is a commitment to economic regeneration, as articulated by council leaders. Cllr Marcia Cameron, Lambeth’s cabinet member for inclusive economy, stated:

“Local shopping streets are the heartbeats of our communities, and the council is committed to doing everything it can to make sure they are thriving and attractive places to do business.”

This direct quote, as reported by MyLondon, captures the council’s proactive stance.

The pilot responds to a report from last week that linked high vacancies to stalled growth. With national backing via the HSRA, Lambeth gains unprecedented powers to intervene, potentially transforming derelict spaces into bustling enterprises.

This aligns with wider UK government efforts to support high streets recovering from retail shifts and economic headwinds.

How Will the Auction Process Work for Empty Shops?

Under the scheme, Lambeth Council can enforce the ‘right to rent’ on units vacant for one to five years, auctioning them to prospective tenants. The MyLondon coverage explains that this involves identifying eligible properties in the targeted areas, assessing ownership, and proceeding to public auctions once legal thresholds are met. The process prioritises speed to minimise further decay.

Successful bidders would secure leases under favourable terms, incentivising small businesses and independents to take up residence. The council anticipates this will not only fill units but also stimulate surrounding economic activity, from job creation to increased footfall.

What Broader Impact Could This Have on Lambeth’s Economy?

Economic growth forms the cornerstone of the pilot’s objectives. The council report, referenced in MyLondon, predicts that reducing vacancies will boost local revenue, support jobs, and enhance community cohesion. Brixton’s high vacancy rate, in particular, has been a drag on the area’s reputation as a cultural hub.

By participating in the national HSRA framework, Lambeth positions itself as a leader in high street revival. The GLA grant underscores confidence in the borough’s strategy, potentially setting a precedent for other councils nationwide.

Who is Leading the Charge at Lambeth Council?

Cllr Marcia Cameron stands at the forefront, championing the inclusive economy portfolio. Her statement, as quoted verbatim in the MyLondon piece, reflects a deep-seated belief in the vitality of local commerce:

“Local shopping streets are the heartbeats of our communities, and the council is committed to doing everything it can to make sure they are thriving and attractive places to do business.”

As cabinet member, Cllr Cameron oversees the pilot’s rollout, coordinating with planning, legal, and economic teams. Her leadership ensures the scheme aligns with Lambeth’s broader vision for equitable growth.

Is This Part of a National Effort to Revive High Streets?

Absolutely, as confirmed across sources. The HSRA is a UK-wide programme, with Lambeth and Lewisham as early adopters in London thanks to GLA funding. MyLondon frames it as integral to combating the scourge of empty shops post-economic disruptions.

Nationally, the initiative addresses a crisis where high streets have struggled against online retail and changing consumer habits. Lambeth’s involvement amplifies its role in this collective push for renewal.

What Challenges Might Lambeth Face in Implementing the Scheme?

Potential hurdles include legal disputes from property owners reluctant to relinquish control. The ‘right to rent’ powers, while sweeping, require meticulous adherence to protocols to avoid challenges. MyLondon notes the one-year pilot status allows for evaluation and refinement.

Community buy-in is another factor; while welcomed by many, some may worry about gentrification in areas like Brixton. The council must balance revival with preserving local character.

How Does Brixton Compare to Other Targeted Areas?

Brixton bears the brunt, with vacancy rates exceeding borough averages. West Norwood and New Park Road in Clapham, though affected, offer diverse opportunities – from niche retail in Clapham to community-focused spaces in Norwood. The MyLondon report singles out Brixton’s scale as justification for priority action.

This disparity highlights tailored strategies: Brixton’s cultural density demands vibrant, independent tenants, while others may suit mixed-use developments.

What Support is Lambeth Receiving from the Greater London Authority?

The GLA’s grant is pivotal, enabling Lambeth and Lewisham to pioneer the HSRA locally. As per MyLondon, this funding covers administrative, legal, and auction costs, ensuring robust execution. It signals London’s mayoral office prioritising high street recovery.

Could This Pilot Be Expanded Beyond One Year?

Success metrics from the report – reduced vacancies, increased lettings – will dictate. MyLondon suggests positive outcomes could prompt permanence, aligning with national trends. Cllr Cameron’s vision implies long-term commitment.

What Do Locals and Businesses Say About Empty Shops?

While direct quotes from residents are not yet in the initial coverage, the council anticipates enthusiasm from traders eyeing expansion. Brixton’s markets and independents stand to gain most, potentially revitalising night-time economies.

Why is Reviving High Streets Crucial for Communities?

Shopping streets foster social ties, as Cllr Cameron notes. Empty units breed anti-social behaviour and decline; auctions promise vibrancy. MyLondon ties this to Lambeth’s inclusive economy ethos.