IWRITE with regard to the article referring to empty shops in Boscombe (Echo, February 16) and other areas.

I started my career in estate agency over 40 years ago, and at one time to be different, I use to try and specialise in the sale of retail units and businesses.

As your item suggests, that is all well and good when we are feeling positive and there is money to be spent.

However, no one needs to be reminded we are in recession with the government desperate to save us all from bankruptcy.

That has an obvious knock on effect to traders, especially those who have to pay rent. From my own experience, I know what it is like to only work to pay the landlord.

I gave up decades ago and cut my losses, although I would very much like to be out on the High Street once again.

There is talk of perhaps lifting Yellow Lines and that is certainly an option, councils ought to be looking at.

People need to be able to park outside a shop or at least close by.

That is why shopping centres are popular, although in my opinion, boring. Alternatively allow empty shops to be converted into houses.

RICHARD F. GRANT, Burley, Ringwood