The British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) is welcoming news that the government is extending its protection for commercial tenants from eviction until the end of the year.

On 16 September, Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick announced that businesses will be protected from the threat of eviction until the end of 2020; three months longer than anticipated. The extension, which was due to expire on 30 September, follows campaigning from Bira and other trade associations.

Commenting is Andrew Goodacre, Bira’s CEO. “Bira is delighted to see this further intervention by the government. Retailers have worked very hard since re-opening in June to recover some of the lost sales from the lockdown.

“Footfall has remained a disappointing 30% lower than normal levels. This has affected some business on the high street, with 20% of independent retailers not able to pay rent in Quarter Two. This moratorium extension enables retailers to now focus on the build-up to the very important festive period.”

Last month, Bira backed the British Retail Consortium’s call for Government help for retailers to meet rent demands. Read the full story here.

For further information on Bira, please click here.