Hammerson, which owns shopping centres such as the Bullring in Birmingham and Brent Cross in London, said it had received “a variety of requests for rent deferrals, monthly payments and waivers”, particularly from smaller and independent occupiers.

It said by the end of March 27 it had only received 37% of due rent. Adjusted for deferments and switches to monthly payments, this represented around 57% of due rent.

The landlord said it would be reviewing these requests “on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the business model and risk profile of the occupier” alongside any government aid.