TWO city centre traders have been left shell-shocked by problems in finding new premises for their shop.

Steve Lewsley and Jane Wynn say they have been foiled at every turn in looking for a new base - even though Bradford has scores of empty units.

Their independent shop The Alternative will close tomorrow and the business cannot re-start until new premises are found.

But Bradford Chamber of Trade has insisted the couple's plight does not signify a general malaise in the city centre.

For months, partners Mr Lewsley and Miss Wynn have been viewing units and liaising with owners and agents. "We are totally despondent at how little success we have had," said Miss Wynn.

The couple have run the business in Market Street for about 18 months, selling handmade or alternative goods such as jewellery, textiles, artwork, jams and chutneys.

But this weekend the lease runs out and they have nowhere to go. The building is being closed down for a major refurbishment ahead of the Westfield development coming on stream.

"It is frustrating and illogical," said Mr Lewsley. "There are scores of empty properties in the centre, which is where we want to be."

They say some units they have viewed have been empty for more than a year, many needing repair work.

"Either owners are citing ludicrous prices or they are so slow to get things moving," he said. "Just the opposite of what you would expect."

Miss Wynn said: "It is quite shocking to see the lack of interest and maintenance with some properties, especially when people are, quite rightly, applauding signs of regeneration in Bradford.

"If there's a lack of suitably-maintained properties and landlords who would rather see premises remain empty rather than negotiate, this can only have a detrimental effect."

Mr Lewsley questions whether there is 'another agenda'. "We have found rents going up substantially since Westfield got under way," he said.

"You would have thought anyone with an empty property would bite our hands off but that just hasn't been the case."

The Alternative represents about 40 artists and crafts people and there is a waiting list of people wanting to get on board.

"We have a loyal customer base," said Miss Wynn. "Independents add individuality, originality and a certain character to shopping areas that many major high street brands don't.

"But we need to have a presence and we are starting to worry we may not have a place in Bradford city centre."

Val Summerscales, Chamber of Trade secretary, said the couple's plight could be a combination of circumstances surrounding the Westfield development.

"I have heard nothing but positive things about people wanting to come to the city centre, especially the growth zone," she said. "But it is true that the Westfield factor could be pushing up rents.

"Also, properties in the conservation area might see slow progress on leases or repairs due to restrictions on what is allowed. But there is no overall problem.

"However, it is sad this business cannot have continuous trading - especially when new opportunities are opening up."