The number of empty shops in Britain continues to soar, this is not only unsightly and poor for other businesses in the areas affected but adds a misery to what is already difficult trading times and consumer confidence. Some towns have vacancy rates of between a quarter and third of all stores. I want people to sign up to the petition to force the goverment to legislate to local councils nationally that they are to make all efforts in getting new occupants in the properties even at peppercorn rents - for example a shop next to mine has been empty for 2 years and the asking rent is £3333.00 per month plus rates - if the council would let the property out at a quarter of this I know for a fact that retailers would occupy;