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Which Three Counties high streets will survive 2021?
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Sustainable St Albans is gearing up for its annual Sustainability Festival, SustFest24, from June 7 to 16. This community-led event is packed with activities designed to promote environmental sustainability and inspire positive change. Among the many exciting events this year, the Preloved Charity Fashion Show and Sustainable Style workshop stand out, emphasizing eco-friendly fashion choices.
Preloved Charity Fashion Show
The Preloved Charity Fashion Show will take place on June 7 at the Alban Arena. This fashion show is a unique event that combines style with sustainability, showcasing outfits created entirely from second-hand and upcycled clothing. By highlighting the beauty and creativity that can come from preloved items, the show aims to challenge the fast fashion industry and promote a culture of reuse and recycling. This event not only supports local charities but also demonstrates that sustainable fashion can be both stylish and accessible.
The fashion show will feature local models and designers, bringing a community feel to the runway. Attendees can expect an evening of high fashion, innovative designs, and inspiring stories behind the outfits. Tickets for the event are available for £10 and can be purchased here (Sustainable St Albans) (Sustainable St Albans).
Sustainable Style Workshop
On June 10, the Sustainable Style workshop will provide practical tips for creating a sustainable wardrobe. This interactive session will cover various aspects of eco-friendly fashion, including how to choose sustainable fabrics, the benefits of buying second-hand, and techniques for upcycling old clothes. Participants will learn how to reduce their carbon footprint through mindful fashion choices and sustainable practices.
The workshop will be led by experts in sustainable fashion who will share their insights and experiences. It’s a fantastic opportunity to gain knowledge and skills that can help transform your wardrobe into a more sustainable one. Tickets for the Sustainable Style workshop can be found here (Sustainable St Albans).
The Impact of Fast Fashion
The fast fashion industry is notorious for its significant environmental impact. It is responsible for approximately 10% of global carbon emissions and produces a vast amount of waste, with around 85% of textiles ending up in landfills each year. Fast fashion also consumes massive amounts of water; it takes about 2,700 liters of water to make one cotton shirt, which is equivalent to what one person drinks in two and a half years.
Why Sustainable Fashion Matters
Sustainable fashion aims to minimize the negative environmental and social impacts associated with the fashion industry. By choosing eco-friendly materials, supporting ethical brands, and embracing second-hand shopping, consumers can play a vital role in reducing the demand for fast fashion. Sustainable fashion helps conserve resources, reduce waste, and promote more ethical labor practices.
Join SustFest24
SustFest24 is a perfect platform to learn about and engage in sustainability practices. The Preloved Charity Fashion Show and Sustainable Style workshop are just two of the many events designed to inspire and educate the community. By participating in these events, you can contribute to a more sustainable future and enjoy a variety of activities focused on environmental conservation.
For more information and to view the full schedule of events, visit the Sustainable St Albans website. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of this incredible festival and make a positive impact on the environment.
Mark your calendars and join us in celebrating sustainability with style at SustFest24!
Milton Keynes’ much-anticipated landmark visitor destination, Unity Place, has now opened all of its remaining facilities and is officially fully open. Located directly opposite MK Station Square, Unity Place is more than just a venue; it’s a vibrant community hub set to redefine the urban experience in the heart of the city.
A Culinary Haven: Diverse Dining Options Under One Roof
Unity Place offers an unparalleled shopping and dining experience. At the heart of this destination is the Urban Food Market, featuring an eclectic mix of street food vendors that cater to every palate. Here, you can indulge in rustic Italian delights at Raffaele Pizza, savor Taiwanese rice boxes and bao buns from Bian Dang, or enjoy the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine at Cantina Carnitas. For those seeking an elevated dining experience, Dipna Anand’s Kitchen & Bar is a must-visit. Celebrity chef Dipna Anand brings authentic Punjabi and South Indian cuisine to your table, with signature dishes such as tandoori lamb chops, paneer tikka, and lamb shish.
Convenience Meets Quality: Shopping Essentials at Unity Place
Unity Place isn’t just about food. It’s designed to cater to all your needs under one roof. The Corner Store offers everyday essentials, while Baker’s Room tempts with freshly made bread, pastries, cakes, and coffee. Even grooming is covered, thanks to the high-end barbershop ROK, perfect for a stylish fresh trim.
Work and Play at Unity Place: The Ideal Balance
For those blending work and leisure, Unity Place provides an innovative solution. Partnering with co-working provider x+why, it offers flexible working spaces perfect for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote workers. The ground floor houses the public Santander Work Café, which includes co-working desks, bookable meeting rooms, and a branch for everyday banking needs. With over 60,000 sq. ft. of contemporary office space, Unity Place ensures a productive environment with breakout spaces, private offices, enterprise suites, and mission rooms.
Sip and Savor at Unity Place: A Destination for Drinks
Unity Place is also a haven for those who enjoy a good drink. The rooftop bar, Unity Sky Lounge, offers stunning panoramic views of the city alongside a fantastic selection of food and beverages. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or starting your evening, this is the perfect spot to relax. Additionally, Dipna Anand’s bar provides a cozy atmosphere for a pre-dinner cocktail or mocktail, while the fully stocked Unity Bar boasts an extensive drinks list to satisfy any preference.
Why Visit Unity Place?
Unity Place is more than just a visitor destination; it’s an experience. Here are a few reasons why you should make it your next stop:
- Variety: With a wide range of dining options, there’s something for everyone.
- Convenience: Everything you need, from food to shopping to workspaces, is available under one roof.
- Community: It’s a vibrant hub that fosters community and connection.
- Quality: High-end amenities ensure a premium experience.
- Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking views from the rooftop bar.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Unity Place is set to become a cornerstone of Milton Keynes. Come and experience it for yourself – the future of urban living is here.
