Tandridge District Council is inviting residents and businesses to have their say on a proposal to introduce a High Street Rental Auction in part of Caterham Valley town centre.

High Street Rental Auctions are a new government initiative which allows councils to take action where commercial properties that have been left empty for long periods and landlords have not taken steps to rent them out.

The aim is to bring vacant buildings back into use, supporting local businesses, improving the look of Caterham Valley town centre and boosting the local economy.

The proposed area of Caterham Valley town centre includes Station Avenue, the southern end of Croydon Road and the northern end of Godstone Road.

If approved, the proposal would allow the Council to step in and run an auction process to identify a tenant for suitable vacant properties following engagement with landlords and a formal notice period.

The six week consultation closes at 11.59pm on Monday 27 July 2026 and residents and businesses can take part online at www.tandridge.gov.uk/consult.

Councillor Deb Shiner, Chair of the Community Services, said: “Vacant shops can have a real impact on our town centres. This new power could help bring empty buildings back into use, supporting local businesses and making Caterham Valley a more attractive place to live, work and visit. 

We want to hear from residents and businesses before making any decisions, so I encourage people to take part in the consultation and share their views.”