Fake shop ‘opens’ in North Harrow

Harrow Council has transformed the front of a vacant shop in North Harrow into a fake florist emblazoned with the message "this retail space could be yours" to attract potential investors.  

The colourful, eye-catching shop front launches a two-year programme to regenerate the retail centre where around 20 percent of units are standing vacant 

The Council's economic development team will conduct a residents' survey at the launch to measure demand for different retail types. The team is working with commercial agents to advise prospective investors on travel-to-shop patterns, spending patterns, catchment area and transport routes.  

Cllr Keith Ferry, portfolio holder for planning and economic development on Harrow Council, said: 

"The Council is doing everything it can to help our local shopping centres and businesses. 

"They have been hard hit by the recession and this eye-catching and cost effective campaign is about showing the business potential in North Harrow , while improving the look of the high street. 

"We want it to inspire investors to set up shop in the area and we are working with commercial agents to provide supporting market research."  

Ian Halper is the managing director at Clive Lawrence Estate Agents and is marketing the mock-up shop premises. He said: 

"I've never seen this done before and think it's a great way of kick starting interest in the local area. 

"The market remains weak and anything the Council can do to encourage new business and make use of vacant premises like this one is welcome. 

"We are pleased to have the opportunity to work with the Council on this campaign and hope the mock-up shop becomes a long-term viable business."