LET'S get the record straight about Labour's position on the "living above the shop" initiative referred to by Coun Sunderland (Letters, October 24).
During the time of the Labour council work was undertaken to encourage private owners and landlords of empty properties, including flats above shops, to convert these to residential use.
The scheme has created 31 homes above shops since 1998. It gained widespread publicity and was the focal point for a launch of York's city centre living initiative in June 2000. Other potential schemes were discussed but, despite the council's best endeavours, the landlords and/or owners of these properties decided against pursuing the "live over the shop" option.
There is still no compulsion on owners/landlords of empty spaces above shops to use them.
Labour housing spokesperson,
Chaucer Street,
York.
Updated: 11:32 Saturday, November 01, 2003
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article