Chepstow has been named the worst high street in Wales and the third worst in Britain, according to a new index by retail consultancy Harper Dennis Hobbs. The study ranked 1,000 UK high streets on 'vitality', factoring in empty units, low-quality shops like bookmakers, and the proportion of bars. Chepstow's high street, once known for independent shops, now features betting shops and charity stores.
Long-time residents recall a bustling town centre with the Herbert Lewis department store and Morris dancing stag parties. However, many shoppers now cross the M48 bridge to Bristol, a trend that began before the pandemic. The town's reliance on elderly customers was hit hard by Covid-19 restrictions, contributing to its low ranking.
Local traders are fighting back. Carol Mutlow, the longest-serving trader with nearly 30 years on Moor Street, plans a street party in August if the Castell Roc festival is postponed again. 'I hope people come, we need something to look forward to,' she said. 'I think the pandemic has changed shopping habits. People realise they need to support local shops.'
Dawn Floyd, owner of St Mary's Collectables, was 'absolutely shocked and mortified' by the ranking. 'It's damning. We've all fought so hard to maintain our businesses,' she said. Despite the challenges, she believes Chepstow can return to its former glory as a historic tourist town with quirky shops.
Monmouthshire County Council has recently pedestrianised the high street in an effort to revive the area. However, traders note that shoppers still have to pay for parking, unlike in neighbouring Caldicot, and hope that more support will help the town bounce back.
