Topic: | Re:How to save the high street | |
Posted by: | Paul Campbell | |
Date/Time: | 14/01/20 18:22:00 |
I thought the most interesting part of the Panorama programme was the High Road Task Force lady (no not that one) saying that we have focused far too much on retail since the 80s and 90s, that led to a lot of sub-standard identikit chain stores taking over space, until their business models have collapsed, and that we need to pivot towards more multi-use space including residential, leisure and entertainment to attract more people to the High Roads which will in turn create more footfall for shops. I can totally see that applying to Chiswick where there is demand for more leisure and entertainment facilities. Her point was that High Roads were always more geared towards leisure until the obsession with shopping took over for a relatively short period in their history so let's be radical and conservative. Seeing an old department store's ground floor takien over by an Age Concern charity providing multiple health and leisure options for older people was inspiring as was the store converted to crazy golf and restaurant for families. And the old John Lewis in Southsea being converted to multi-use including hotel, work, retail, leisure, health spaces. And bike parking and repair shop. Bring back the Chiswick Empire, hurray for the cinema. |