The new data published on the number of empty commercial premises on high streets throughout the UK makes interesting reading and suggests that there is evidence of a continuing 'North-South Divide'. One in every five shops in northern towns and cities are empty, compared to one in ten in the south.
This information could be used as a basis for a geographical investigation and comparative study for GCSE or A Level geographers. This BBC article lists the towns with the highest vacancy rates and those with the lowest which could be used as a comparision to towns in your local area. Are there anomalies? If so. why? There is a great deal here to investigate and lots of opportunities to collect primary data and collect data from secondary sources.
Galina would be happy to look at including this in a study tour, providing the opportunity for students to collect data that they could use as a comparison with their home town. Tours available to Liverpool, London and the Lake District could incorporate this as part of the study element. Just an idea!
