Policy information sourced from the Southwark Local Plan 2022
P33 Business relocation
- Where existing small or independent businesses or small shops may be displaced by development a business relocation strategy, written in consultation with affected businesses, must be provided. The business relocation strategy must set out viable relocation options.
- All business relocation strategies must include:
- Existing amount of non-residential floorspace (GIA) separated by use class, including vacant units and yards. This should include any floorspace demolished; and
- Schedule of existing businesses operating on the site including business sector, estimated number of employees and lease terms; and
- Proposed levels of non-residential floorspace (GIA) and yard space, separated by use class, business sector and estimated number of employees; and
- Details of engagement with existing businesses on site regarding re-provision of premises or relocation options; and
- Details of engagement with the council, local agents, businesses, business associations and workspace providers to secure occupiers for new employment space.
- Where existing businesses are accommodated in new development the strategy should include:
- Specific business requirements including servicing, fit out and ownership or lease terms; and
- Temporary relocation arrangements or scheme phasing to allow the continuation of the business during construction. Temporary relocation should be contained on site or as close to the original site as possible; and
- Options for temporary relocation should consider the cost and practical arrangements for businesses where multiple moves may not be feasible.
- Where existing businesses are proposed to be relocated the strategy should include:
- Reasons why existing businesses cannot be located on site; and
- Details of relocation options explored with individual businesses and the assistance and support that will be provided. Statements from the businesses are required to show evidence that the relocation option is suitable for the viable continuation of the business; and
- Identification of alternative premises in Southwark. Where no suitable premises exist, premises should be identified in adjacent boroughs; and
- Statements from existing businesses should they wish to cease trading rather than relocate; and
- Collaboration with other landowners to establish whether suitable workspace for existing businesses could be accommodated in different phases of the development programmes.
For more information please see the Southwark Local Plan 2022