Business leaders have rejected claims Canterbury is in the midst of a “retail crisis” following a number of recent shop closures.

A host of former independent shops are sitting bare and some big-name chains are said to be at risk.

But retail chiefs have reassured that less than 6% of the city’s units are vacant - a figure which is below the national average.

Property consultant Dave Wilson, however, fears high rent prices are going to drive businesses away.

“They are definitely the route of the problem,” he said.

“For every trader thinking of coming into a shop, there is a huge risk of failure due to the units being priced at astronomical amounts. People just can’t afford them.

“Rents have got to fall in order for shops to succeed, otherwise it’s certainly going to get worse and worse.”

Mr Wilson believes the city should take inspiration from elsewhere.

“When you look at Harbour Street in Whitstable, there is a much greater interest in smaller and independent trade than in Canterbury,” he said.

“I realise there are different reasons - mainly because Whitstable attracts more higher spenders - but the smaller businesses are more successful there.

“As a city we don’t play to our strengths. It needs to be much more of a destination for long weekend stays instead of a day visit.”

In contrast, Lisa Carlson, chief executive of Canterbury’s Business Improvement District, believes independent retailers still have a strong foothold in the city.

She alluded to recent statistics which reveal that almost 50% of the city’s shops are independent and highlighted this year’s new arrivals, including Alice and the Hatter, The Dog Store and Houdini’s Magic Bar.

“There is a retail challenge across the board for everyone all over the country at the moment - it would be unfair to say it’s just Canterbury,” she said.

“A recent has shown that 47% of the city’s shops are independent. That is an impressive number which shows they are a big attraction.

“International and local visitors absolutely love the independent shops and they do draw in numbers.

“As much as it is challenging them, we are working to ensure that they are promoted well.

“We have recently helped make two films which promote the city businesses very well.”

Aside from smaller business, some of the city’s longest-standing big name brands are still facing an uncertain future. Marks & Spencer bosses have only announced 35 of the 100 stores it will close down - leaving Canterbury’s branch in serious doubt.

Mothercare will be shutting 50 of its shops but the list of those to be axed has not yet been revealed.

Electrical retailer Maplin closed two weeks ago and high street restaurant Chimichanga closed in the spring.

Despite going into administration this week, the Canterbury branch of discount store Poundworld is set to remain open.

Canterbury’s branch of Italian restaurant Carluccio’s is also set to survive despite a major reshuffle resulting in others being shut down.