I would like to welcome the announcement made by Hazel Blears that more empty premises will be used for community purposes in this time of recession.

I am determined that we will not see areas of Bristol become empty as the recession hits.

I will be working with local traders, councillors and others to ensure that if premises become vacant, they are not simply boarded up to become a target for vandals.

We must keep Bristol an attractive place to work, visit and spend money. Some ideas include allowing local charities and social enterprises to use empty shops, to open new community cafés, art galleries and performance spaces, to let the police, fire service or Sure Start use empty shops, and to let new start-up businesses have space in these premises. We should also look at ideas like farmers' markets to breathe new life into areas of the city.

The Government are offering funding to innovative schemes. I am sure that we can work together to transform the streets of some of Bristol's more neglected areas into a more attractive place to be.

I am inviting readers of the Post to suggest uses for vacant shops, so that we avoid letting this opportunity go to waste. Write with your ideas to 326a Church Road, St George, Bristol, BS5 8AJ or share them with other readers on this letters' page.

During this recession, we have two alternatives: do nothing and let it run its course, or do all in our power to help people through it. I am determined to help lead Bristol through the recession, with real help for local people.

Kerry McCarthy, Labour MP for Bristol East.