Homeworkers in Scotland have called for more affordable commercial premises for them to work from.

Research from the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) found that 42 per cent of home-based businesses say they haven’t moved into commercial premises because of cost, whilst 6 per cent say that there aren’t any suitable options.

The FSB has argued that this “hidden army of back-room businesses” could help revamp cities and town centres if suitable and affordable workspace was made available. It argues that properties such as vacant retail units would be ideal and would also present an opportunity for those who normally work from home to network with each other.

Andy Willox, the FSB's Scottish policy convenor, commented, “There must be a way to diversify the use of these empty units – providing modern businesses with suitable premises – putting business back into the hearts of our towns."

The FSB said businesses that move into existing empty units could also club together to negotiate discounted rates on shared services such as high-speed broadband. It added that a range of workspaces should be provided, not just offices, to help diversify and regenerate town centres.