Labour risks election wipeout unless it improves Britain's high streets, study finds

"by the University of Southampton found people feel high streets have declined more than any other part of their local area over the past decade, as household brands collapsed and shoplifting rose. Improving shopping precincts was the third most important local issue for voters, behind good healthcare and reducing crime, according to the polling conducted by YouGov. Reform UK supporters were more likely than anyone else to say their area had significantly declined, underlining what researchers called a deep sense of place-based resentment towards Westminster."

"In response to that anger, a business rates discount for pubs announced on Tuesday came alongside the promise of a high street strategy, with a set of measures to be announced later this year. Treasury minister Dan Tomlinson said: We do understand it's a tough time for other businesses on the high street ... consumers have changed their habits, increasingly working from home and shopping online, and these trends continue to make it harder."

People feel high streets have declined more than any other part of their local area over the past decade as household brands collapsed and shoplifting rose. Improving shopping precincts ranks as the third most important local issue for voters behind good healthcare and reducing crime. Supporters of Reform UK were more likely than other voters to report significant local decline, reflecting strong place-based resentment toward Westminster. High streets have become symbolic of local prosperity and a focus of business anger over higher business rates. The government offered a business rates discount for pubs and promised a high street strategy later this year. Mapping and property data found at least 8,000 fewer retail outlets in 2025 than in 2019, with restaurants, vape shops and discount stores growing while bookmakers, department stores and clothing shops disappear.

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