Trader believes smaller units could boost city centre
A BUSINESSMAN has been given planning permission to alter his Inverness city centre premises to form six new retail units.
Salim Ladha, who owns the property in Lombard Street, believes there is scope for businesses seeking smaller, affordable units such as hairdressing and beauty salons, and he is keen to attract the specialists to the ground floor building.
He plans to carry out extensive internal alterations to house the units once he has assessed demand.
Mr Ladha admitted nothing was certain and much depended on what the demand is, but he was optimistic his vision for smaller units that people can afford would be successful.
He said that the tenant who operates Cleos gift shop in the premises at present had given notice they are moving out in June.
"Before work is started on the units I will put up signs saying that up to six units will be available to see what reaction I get.
"With the planning permission everything is in place for work to start.
"It’s difficult in the town centre to rent out a bigger unit just now.
"I think there is a demand and if the rent is smaller, people can afford it."
He said he would be seeking rent of between £120 and £140 per week for each of the new units.
"I’m currently finding that tenants of a larger unit have been leaving after two years because they can’t afford the rent," he added.
Cleos’ proprietor did not want to comment.
Mike Smith of Inverness Business Improvement District said: "I noticed Mr Ladha’s planning application to split his Lombard Street shop with great interest.
"Whilst we need the national chains to give credibility to the city centre retail offer it’s the independents that give the point of difference.
"We all want more such businesses in the city centre but it is difficult financially and in other ways for such start ups and this scheme seems to offer such opportunities but at a controlled cost.
"On behalf of Bid I welcome planning permission being approved and wish him success with the project," he added.
