A ROUNDED approach to regenerating Sleaford could include replacing empty retail units on the outskirts of the town with much-needed housing.

Following the recent Portas Review, which aims to address the problems facing struggling UK high streets, the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA), has called on the Government to consider transforming vacant high street retail properties into housing.

Of the suggestion, North Kesteven District Council's leader Marion Brighton said: "NKDC is working hard to put business back into our town centres to ensure they are vibrant places people want to spend time in.

"This means a rounded approach to regenerating our high streets, bringing people in to shop and also for leisure and tourism.

"While it wouldn't be appropriate to change the use of ground-floor properties in our key retail areas to residential, it may be something we think about on the peripheries.

"Residential above retail in town centres is a use we would welcome."

NAEA chief executive Peter Bolton King said: "Swift action from local authorities and forward-thinking developers is crucial to revive the UK's town and city centres.

"Commercial property owners are facing high business rates for buildings that no one occupies.

"Therefore, in the right circumstances, converting these buildings for residential use could have an aesthetic and economic benefit.

"When converting this type of retail space, the location should always be carefully analysed. However a property in the city or town centre may well provide easy access to many desirable residential amenities."

Coun Brighton added that together with other partners, North Kesteven District Council is currently leading the way in providing new council homes, meeting its housing provision targets.