With uncertainty in the retail market still making the headlines, independent shop openings in Bath are mirroring the trend reported in a shop vacancy survey for the second quarter of 2011.

Although the Local Data Company report does not mention Bath specifically, it says there has been a rise in the number of independent retail shops opening since the low of 2008/9, in contrast to the significant closures announced by the multiples. Commercial property agents Carter Jonas backs this up with the announcement of three new shops in the city.

The LDC survey says that at a national level the shop vacancy rate has remained stable at around 14.5 percent, which, while surprising to some, is as a result of other sectors expanding such as charity shops, betting shops, supermarkets and £ shops offsetting closures.

In the past month three new shops have opened in premises let by Carter Jonas who say they are experiencing a demand for city properties, and interest in other shops they have on their books continues to be brisk.

Pasha Jewellery selling hand-crafted Turkish silver plated pieces has opened at 15 Northumberland Place, while a coffee shop has opened at 6 Chapel Row and an Oriental supermarket at 17 St James’ Parade.

Finola Ingham, of Carter Jonas, said: “Coincidentally the deals were going through around the time of National Independents’ Day on July 4 when shoppers were encouraged to buy at least one item from a local independent retailer and celebrate diversity on the high street.

“Bath has a varied mix of shops and it’s important that we support the independents as well as the national retailers.”