Sadiq Khan’s Surprising New Plan for High Streets as 17,000 Shops Set to Disappear

More than 17,000 high street shops in the UK could shut down this year, according to predictions. In response to the ongoing struggles facing these local shopping areas, the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, was recently seen in central London launching a public consultation on plans to make Oxford Street more pedestrian-friendly.

During this event, he was also asked to think about adding public artworks to the city’s high streets as a way to attract more people and make these spaces more enjoyable.

A report from the London Assembly, released on April 24, highlighted several issues affecting high streets. It said that many local councils don’t have enough money or resources to keep these areas clean, and poor litter management is making things worse.

Marina Ahmad, who chairs the Economy, Culture and Skills Committee, explained that many small independent shops are being replaced by big supermarket chains and that high streets are struggling to compete with out-of-town retail parks.

She also pointed out that more people are shopping online, which puts pressure not only on small businesses but also on large retail chains. These changes mean high streets are no longer just places to shop—they’re becoming places where people go to hang out or take part in activities.

Even though high streets are still an important part of the community, long-time business owners like the Murray brothers say they’ve noticed a drop in foot traffic and local activity over the past 25 years. Interestingly, 90% of people living in London are just a 10-minute walk away from their nearest high street, showing how important these areas are in everyday life.

The report was based on feedback from several London councils and experts in the retail sector. It recommended that the Mayor support small businesses by helping them improve their digital skills, using the Grow London Local platform.

It also suggested launching a new “Art on the High Street” programme. This would involve commissioning murals and other interactive artworks with the help of local schools and artists to make these areas more vibrant and engaging.

Last year, over 13,000 high street shops shut down in the UK, and that number is expected to rise this year.

A spokesperson for the Mayor said that Sadiq Khan is aware of the problems and potential that London’s high streets face. That’s why he started the “High Streets for All Challenge,” which has already invested £21 million this year to help support local businesses and improve town centres.

The Mayor is also working with boroughs through the High Street Network to explore new national policies that could benefit local communities. As part of a broader London Growth Plan, there’s even talk of creating a publicly owned estate agency focused on bringing empty shops back into use.