Should struggling artists be given derelict buildings rent-free to use as studios?
I kind of like that idea… I think it could work. Derelict buildings are a hazard in themselves, and they provide a place for people to get in trouble and do things they probably should not be doing. Empty buildings just so attract illegal activity. Having them occupied, for a positive cultural reason too, could only be a good thing and could not only help out artists, but help to reduce crime and antisocial behaviour too. Or at least move it on to somewhere more visible where it can be monitored and tackled.
