England’s most deprived communities have 70% more vape shops, bookmakers, off-licences and takeaways than wealthier areas, according to a study by the Independent Commission on Neighbourhoods (Icon). The research also found that these neighbourhoods have half the number of childcare facilities and about 25% less social infrastructure such as gyms, cafes and pubs.
The report, due to be published on Monday, warns that the government’s focus on town centres risks overlooking “crucial” local shopping parades, which play a central role in people’s lives. Vacancy rates in the poorest neighbourhoods are 8.1%, compared with 5.9% in more affluent areas.
Icon criticised a “fragmented” approach involving up to 13 government departments responsible for policy on these “hyperlocal” areas. Ross Mudie, Icon’s head of research, said: “Ministers risk overlooking vital neighbourhood shopping parades as the government focuses on boosting town centre retail. Communities in these areas should be given extra support to take over and run empty units in their local shopping parades as new community facilities.”
The study comes as Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has made tackling struggling high streets a key mission, announcing an expansion of the £5bn “pride in place” programme. However, it remains unclear whether this policy will address the concerns raised by Icon.
Recent polls show the decline of the high street is one of the biggest local concerns, after high prices. The areas with the most dilapidated high streets are mostly in Labour’s traditional heartlands, particularly in the Midlands and north-east of England.
