Stanmore has dropped out of the top 10 healthiest high streets in London, according to a new report.
The research, from the Royal Society for Public Health, analysed the healthiness of high streets across the capital based on the impact of different outlets on the public’s health and wellbeing.
In 2015, researchers looked at outlets they determined were bad for health – payday lenders, bookmakers, tanning salon and fast food outlets.
They also looked at those that were good for health – pubs and bars, libraries, pharmacies, dentists, opticians and leisure centres.
They have now reassessed the outlets included and have added to their number to reflect the changing face of the high street.
Stanmore was rated London’s third healthiest high street in 2015.
Stuart Webster, who lives in the area, said: “The number of restaurants is good in Stanmore, but we also have an increasing number of fast food places, which target the people who attend the local college and local school children.
“We have also lost a number of clothing stores. There are no butchers, no greengrocers and no bookshop.
“Indulge is coming with high fat desserts and we now have an undertakers. The death of our high street is coming – may it rest in peace.”
Owner of Natural Health Options, Shreya Shah, said: “We have just celebrated 12 years in Stanmore on the Broadway and it has been a struggle but the same struggles that all businesses have faced over the last 10 years. All high streets are struggling due to high rents, high rates, parking fees and small businesses are being impacted by internet shops, rise in living wage and smart pensions.
“Stanmore has been an amazing community to live and work in and through the store we have met amazing people. Many of our customers are of an older generation and appreciate personal service and the good advice we give. They enjoy walking into Stanmore, meeting up with other locals and having a friendly chat.”
Picture courtesy of Tom Bishop
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