Connect with us

Trending

Which Three Counties high streets will survive 2021?

Published

on

what should happen to the empty Beales in Bedford?

2020 was a tough year for high streets across the UK. Many small independents shut their doors during the lockdowns to never open again. High streets across the Three Counties lost big name retailers such as Debenhams, Monsoon and Beales.

It is impossible to put the blame entirely on Covid-19. Some of these businesses were in decline for sometime but what does their disappearance mean for our high streets? Can the high streets across Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire survive more of the same in 2021?

Closed retailer Beales on Bedford High Street. High Streets are in danger.

With more of the UK entering tier 4 and talks of another national lockdown, local business owners are expecting to temporarily close their doors once again. Once again, some of these businesses may never reopen leaving gaping holes on our high streets.

We have looked at some of the larger towns/shopping areas in Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire to see how each will cope after another year of Covid-19.

High streets and towns that will bounce back after Covid-19

Watford – Because of its proximity to London and being home to Intu Watford, Watford’s high street and shopping disrtrict will bounce back fairly quickly. Watford’s nightlife will also bounce back when things return to normal and this will help the local retailers.

intu Watford outlines how it will keep people safe
It is also important to remember that Watford is home to a number of service-based companies. When their employees return to their offices, lunch breaks and after-work browsing will benefit local retailers.

St Albans

There are a number of factors that point to St Albans faring better than most. From a higher ratio of independents retailers vs chains to the higher levels of disposable incomes of local residents, St Albans residents are happy to shop local and pay more for the experience. We don’t expect much change in St Albans after normality returns.

Hitchin

Another market town with a large number of independents, Hitchin residents like to shop local and the town benefits from out-of-town shoppers. Things will return to normal pretty quickly for Hitchin. From its outdoor offerings to its unique independents, Hitchin has plenty to get the streets busy again. Expect to see new retailers looking to make an impact like Hitchin’s Chicken George did when they opened in the middle of the pandemic.

Milton Keynes

Milton Keynes is pretty much too big to fail. Did you know that Milton Keynes has the 5th highest number of business startups in the UK? For every store that closes in 2021, there will be someone willing to take the risk. High Street retailer Next opening a Beauty and Home concept store in the former Debenhams store is an example of this. Yes, There were some closures in Milton Keynes last year, for example Pizza Express but most empty units won’t stay closed for long when the lockdowns are over.

Pizza Express in The Hub Milton Keynes

High streets and towns that will struggle after Covid-19

Luton

The largest town in Bedfordshire should in theory be the most resilient. But Luton has been masking a lot of problems for a long time. The Mall Luton still hasn’t departed from the legacy of The Arndale. Aside from some new signage, the Mall is exactly the same layout as The Arndale and contains pretty much the same retailers you see in every other shopping centre.Overall, The Mall Luton is a good place to shop but outside of The Mall is not welcoming enough for families and out-of-town shoppers. Encouraging new shoppers to venture outside of The Mall is going to be an uphill battle without updating the adjacent areas.

Hemel Hempstead

With an ageing population and shortage of unique independent shops, Hemel Hempstead could struggle in 2021. Great efforts are being made to improve the shopping district with The Marlowees looking very modern but it desperately needs new blood in the form of forward-thinking trendsetting retailers. Decent parking and good transport links are great but further changes will be need to get out-of-town to take the plunge.

 

Hemel Hempstead - High Streets after Covid 19

If things return back to normal in the Spring/Summer, Hemel’s outdoor area need to be utilised to help encourage shoppers back. Good quality outdoor food and entertainment with temporary setting is a must for High Streets going forward.

Stevenage

There is no denying that stevenage as a shopping destination has been struggling for some time. Stevenage is far from the slum Sir Lewis Hamilton described it as but it could do with some modernising. This is happening as part of the Stevenage Better regeneration project. The big issue is the speed of these projects. With most of the construction industry still working throughout the lockdowns, there is no better time for ambitious plans to modernise areas such like Queensway North and the Bus Interchange.

Bedford

We already discussed what needs to happen to improve Bedford High Street. Whilst this list is not comprehensive, it does cover the key problems with Bedford High Street and many other high streets across Bedfordshire.
In terms of retail , Bedford cannot compete with the likes of Milton Keynes so the High Street stakeholders need to focus on what Bedford did best (for a while). Bedford needs to look at its once thriving nightlife and entertainment sector. Split the High Street and surround roads into districts and do more to invite local entrepreneurs.

Would Bedford benefit from being pedestrianised?

Dunstable

Another area with an ageing population and lack of unique independent shops. Dunstable High Street has been on a decline for sometime. There is no way of getting away from it. Most of the lower-end chains will survive but the revival of commutable towns and ease of parking at out of town retail parks will add more pressure on dated high streets in towns like Dunstable and Bedford.

 

Never full or satisfied, I am always willing to try new things and visit new places. Lover of food and all things FAST - Not necessarily fast food. If I am not in the office, you can find me near a track or under a car. I also work with great people in TrendLife's Editorial team.

Continue Reading
Advertisement
Comments

Eating

Experience the Culinary Renaissance of Auberge du Lac at Brocket Hall

Published

on

Experience the Culinary Renaissance of Auberge du Lac at Brocket Hall

Nestled within the historical elegance of Brocket Hall, the renowned Auberge du Lac has proudly announced a new chapter in its storied culinary journey, spearheaded by the illustrious Chef John Barber. Having reopened its doors in May 2023 following a three-year hiatus, the restaurant has been infused with a fresh vigour, artfully blending tradition with cutting-edge culinary innovations.

Experience the Culinary Renaissance of Auberge du Lac at Brocket Hall

Chef John Barber

Chef John Barber: A Maestro in the Kitchen

Chef Barber’s illustrious career, inspired by his mother’s home cooking, began at UCB College of Food and has spanned the globe, from the prestigious kitchens of the Belfry Hotel to the exotic locales of Thailand and Paris. His tenure at London’s Bar Boulud and the opening of 14 Hills with the D&D Group has seasoned him with an unrivaled expertise, making his tenure at Auberge du Lac a herald of culinary excellence.

Lucy Hawkins: Sustainability at Its Core

The heart of Auberge du Lac’s culinary philosophy is its kitchen garden, tenderly curated by Lucy Hawkins. This garden is not merely a plot of land; it is the cradle of sustainability, employing no-dig methods that enrich local biodiversity and allow for the freshest ingredients to be used directly in the kitchen. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in this verdant sanctuary during the Garden Tour & Lunch events, connecting them intimately with the origins of their meals.

Experience the Culinary Renaissance of Auberge du Lac at Brocket Hall

The Auberge Experience: A Symphony of Luxuries

Auberge du Lac doesn’t just stop at fine dining; it offers an immersive ‘Auberge Experience’ package. Priced at £420 per couple, this luxurious offering includes a cozy welcome with Champagne and chocolates, a seven-course tasting menu, an overnight stay in the stately Melbourne Lodge, and a full English breakfast at The Melbourne Club. Each of the lodge’s 16 luxury ensuite bedrooms offers a vista of the Hall, Broadwater Lake, and the golf course, making it an ideal retreat after a gourmet evening.

Access and Convenience

Just a stone’s throw from London, Auberge du Lac offers an escape into the countryside that’s both quick and easy. The journey from central London to the tranquility of Brocket Hall takes less than 30 minutes, making it an ideal getaway for those seeking a taste of the countryside without straying far from the city’s pulse.

Experience the Culinary Renaissance of Auberge du Lac at Brocket Hall

A Forthcoming Review

Stay tuned for an in-depth review of Auberge du Lac, where we will delve deeper into the gastronomic delights and serene ambiance that make this destination a crown jewel of culinary and leisure escapades.

Embrace the opportunity to experience the pinnacle of fine dining and bespoke luxury at Auberge du Lac at Brocket Hall, where every visit promises to be more than just a meal—it’s a journey through the rich tapestry of history, taste, and lush landscapes.

Continue Reading

Events

Jungle Curates an Exclusive Music Experience at Tofte Manor

Published

on

Jungle Curates an Exclusive Music Experience at Tofte Manor

On the 14th of July, the BRIT-nominated duo Jungle will host an unprecedented open-air music event at Tofte Manor, a picturesque 17th-century estate. This unique one-day festival, dubbed “Jungle Curates,” will feature a lineup exclusively selected by Jungle themselves, including some of their favorite artists, DJs, and collaborators.

Stellar Lineup in a Breathtaking Setting

The event will take place amid the stunning backdrop of Tofte Manor’s labyrinth and the surrounding rolling hills of Bedfordshire. It promises an immersive experience with bespoke production, décor, and exclusive merchandise. The lineup reflects Jungle’s significant influence on the music scene, featuring a mix of established and rising stars. Notably, BBC Radio 1 icon Annie Mac will make her Tofte Manor debut, appearing alongside Jungle. The diverse roster continues with Ross From Friends, DJ Paulette, Ahadadream, Peruvian DJ and producer Sofia Kourtesis, and London-based Mood Talk, promising a blend of house, electronica, and more.

A Historic Venue Meets Modern Vibes - Jungle Curates an Exclusive Music Experience at Tofte Manor

Jungle’s Ascending Trajectory

Coming off the success of their latest album “Volcano,” Jungle has been a prominent force in the UK music scene for over a decade. Their recognition includes a recent BRIT Award nomination for “Group of the Year” and a series of sold-out performances worldwide. Their hit single “Back On 74” recently surpassed 100 million streams, and they were the first to sell out three consecutive DJ shows at Koko London in one day.

A Unique Venue with No Restrictions

Tofte Manor is set apart from other venues by its lack of restrictive sound limitations, a common issue at inner-city events. This freedom has made it a favorite spot for electronic music’s biggest names, including Keinemusik, Maribou State, Dixon, TSHA, Floating Points, and Fred Again.., among others. “Jungle Curates” marks the final event of the summer at Tofte Manor, hosted by Labyrinth Events, who have also lined up performances from Adriatique and a sold-out show with Fatboy Slim the preceding weekend.

Jungle Curates an Exclusive Music Experience at Tofte Manor

As the day concludes, Jungle themselves will take the stage for a rare DJ set, ensuring the event not only celebrates their music but also their unique style and influence. This is set to be a highlight of this summer’s music calendar, blending historical charm with contemporary beats in a not-to-be-missed festival setting.

Continue Reading

Film & Theatre

Winner of Best New Musical Bonnie & Clyde comes to Milton Keynes

Published

on

Winner of Best New Musical (What’sOnStage Awards 2023), Bonnie & Clyde comes to Milton Keynes from Tue 18 – Sat 22 Jun as part of its first-ever UK & Ireland Tour.

“Bonnie & Clyde The Musical” is set to captivate audiences across the UK and Ireland following its spectacular run in London’s West End. The show tells the thrilling tale of two small-town kids, Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow, who rose to become legendary folk heroes in America, their story a dazzling mix of love, adventure, and crime.

Leading the cast as Clyde Barrow is Alex James-Hatton, known for his roles in “Heathers” and “Newsies”. He brings his charismatic presence to the stage alongside Katie Tonkinson, starring as Bonnie Parker. Tonkinson, who previously impressed audiences in “Bat Out of Hell”, is set to deliver another unforgettable performance. Adding to the dynamic lineup, Daisy Wood-Davis, recognized for her work in “Hollyoaks” and “Holby City”, will portray Blanche Barrow.

Supporting them, Sam Ferriday, with his extensive musical theater background including “The Cher Show” and “Jersey Boys”, takes on the role of Marvin “Buck” Barrow. Jaz Ellington, an R&B and soul talent known for his appearances on The Voice UK, will enchant as The Preacher. Additionally, Nate Landskroner, who has delighted audiences in “Waitress” and “Heathers”, will alternate the role of Clyde during midweek matinee performances.

The musical boasts an impressive creative team. The score is the work of Tony-nominated composer Frank Wildhorn, with lyrics by Tony and Oscar winner Don Black, and a book by Emmy nominee Ivan Menchell. Nick Winston directs and choreographs, ensuring a vibrant staging of the lovers’ escapades.

Behind the scenes, the set and costumes are crafted by Philip Witcomb, with musical supervision by Katy Richardson. The team also includes notable talents such as Nick Barstow in associate musical supervision and John McDaniel handling original arrangements and orchestrations, among others. Each design element, from lighting by Zoe Spurr to sound by Tom Marshall and wigs by Darren Ware, is meticulously curated to enhance this gripping narrative.

Produced by the Olivier Award-winning DLAP Group, “Bonnie & Clyde The Musical” is more than just a musical; it’s an immersive experience into the lives of America’s most famous outlaws. Whether you’re a fan of action-packed historical tales or poignant love stories, this production promises to be an electrifying adventure. Don’t miss your chance to experience this exceptional blend of storytelling and theatrical innovation!

Continue Reading

Most popular