Salisbury Journal
·Aug 2026
Salisbury city centre needs to tackle empty properties
Annie Riddle argues that Salisbury and other local authorities should address long-term vacant commercial properties and brownfield land, using the former Central Post Office as an example of a building that could be repurposed for housing. She also advocates requiring new developments to install solar canopies over car parks, saying this could provide shade and renewable energy without costing taxpayers money. The column criticizes national planning reforms and higher housebuilding targets for reducing local control, questioning whether developers can meet them while maintaining profitability and affordable housing provision.